National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week this year is November 13th – 21st. It is organized every year by the National Coalition for the Homeless. People from across the country come together to draw attention to the problems of hunger and homelessness. Designed to educate the public, raise awareness about the issue of poverty, and expand the network of volunteers and supporters for local anti-poverty agencies. Food drives are often held to help those who face hunger and homelessness. As many individuals choose to donate their time, attention, and resources to others, in the spirit of giving. The National Coalition for the Homeless hopes to educate people about the reasons why people find themselves without shelter. This week helps show what they can do to help without harboring false opinions about those in need.
The struggle to fulfill basic needs can be difficult for many Americans who live paycheck-to-paycheck. An illness, injury, or job loss can easily lead to poverty, hunger, and homelessness. According to National Today, “Data shows that about 43 million Americans live below the poverty level and one in five children is afflicted by poverty, and approximately half a million Americans are without a home.” Different organizations help out by providing food, a place to sleep, medicines, and more.
https://nationaltoday.com/national-hunger-homeless-awareness-week/
https://iseptaphilly.com/blog/hungerandhomelessawarenessweek2022
How to Help Observe National Hunger & Homeless Awareness Week
Volunteer: at local, state, or national housing or homeless advocacy coalition www.homelessshelterdirectory.org
Donate: by making a financial contribution to support their work. www.homelessshelterdirectory.org
Educate: by identifying the communities with growing homeless populations and generating a better understanding of exactly who those experiencing homelessness are. www.moveforhunger.org/hunger-and- homelessness
Here are 5 Facts About Homelessness you may not know:
1. Many are homeless – On any given night, there are over 600,000 homeless people in the U.S.
2. Many veterans are homeless – Over 60,000 veterans are homeless.
3. Domestic violence often causes homelessness – The leading cause of homelessness in women is domestic violence.
4. Homelessness is a crime – Cities in the U.S. are increasingly making homelessness a crime, which blocks the homeless from participating in normal activities.
5. One-quarter of the homeless are children – On any given night, there are over 140,000 homeless children in the U.S.
Let’s not limit our assistance to just this week, but extend our support throughout the entire year to help those in need!
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