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Almost two years ago, the number of homeless in Indiana was down, but advocates expect those numbers to rise during a biennial count this month.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires communities to count their homeless populations every two years. The numbers are used to measure progress toward reducing the number of people without a home.
A national coalition Monday released the results of the most recent count and found that between 2005 and 2007, the number of homeless decreased 10 percent nationwide. In Indiana, the number dropped 25 percent, from 9,857 people to 7,358.
Population figures from Fort Wayne also decreased during that time but by a smaller amount, 4 percent, according to numbers provided to The Journal Gazette previously.
“I believe that we are doing a better job in coordinating our social services,” said Mollie Cripe, co-chair of the Allen County Housing and Homeless Taskforce.
The task force meets monthly discuss new programs, changes and what space is available so representatives of the different service agencies are on the same page. That networking is making a difference, Cripe said.
A recent effort with Park Center has also helped reduce Fort Wayne’s homeless population by giving those with mental illness a permanent place to call home, Cripe said.
Despite a decrease decrease, the report notes that homeless numbers will likely reverse course during the 2009 count because of the economic downturn and the foreclosure crisis.
“You have people or families maybe barely hanging on and lost a job or benefit due to the economy and now will face homelessness,” she said.
One indicator of how many people are at risk for homelessness is the size of waiting lists for local shelter space. Vincent Village, a transitional living program for families, had a waiting list of 50 families at the start of 2009, Cripe said.
The Rescue Mission, a shelter for men, and the YWCA’s domestic violence shelter for women and children have both seen high demand during the past few months, said Cripe, who works for the YWCA.
Losing a job or not having a place to stay can increase the intensity and frequency of abuse, she said.
The homeless counts can bring additional federal dollars to Fort Wayne. For example, Section 8 vouchers through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development are based on need, and the number of homeless demonstrates the need for affordable housing, she said.
Local advocates hope that a stimulus package President-elect Barack Obama will send to Congress will include funding for affordable housing including money for new Section 8 vouchers.
The count also brings awareness and helps local agencies better address the problem of homelessness, Cripe said.
Count organizers need scarves, gloves and hats plus other items that will be included in backpacks for the homeless. Organizers typically provide duct tape, bags, and personal hygiene items. To donate items, call 424-4908 ext. 243. The count nationwide is set for Jan. 29.
aiacone@jg.net
