As longtime housing activist retires, the fight to end homelessness continues.
Consider This from NPR
Deep Dive
What is the current state of homelessness in the U.S. according to the latest government report?
The latest government report found 770,000 people living in shelters or outside on streets, parks, or in their cars, marking an 18% increase from the previous year. This is the highest number since the report began in 2007. However, this count is considered an undercount as it only captures a single night and excludes those staying with family or friends.
What was the Supreme Court's ruling on homelessness, and how has it impacted policies across the country?
The Supreme Court ruled that it is permissible to punish people for sleeping outside, even if they have no alternative shelter. This decision has led over 100 places, including San Joaquin County in California, to ban outdoor sleeping. Critics argue it criminalizes poverty, while supporters believe it encourages people to seek homeless services and treatment programs.
What makes Project HOME different from other homeless service organizations?
Project HOME distinguishes itself by addressing more than just housing. It provides healthcare, jobs, education, and a sense of community, aiming to help individuals not only survive but thrive. Its motto, 'None of us are home until all of us are home,' reflects its commitment to inclusivity and systemic change.
What inspired Sister Mary Scullion to co-found Project HOME?
Sister Mary Scullion was inspired by her interactions with women who had been deinstitutionalized and were living on the streets. Many expressed a desire for jobs and homes, which highlighted the systemic failures of deinstitutionalization in the 1960s and 1970s. This personal connection motivated her to create a supportive community through Project HOME.
What does Sister Mary Scullion believe is needed to address homelessness effectively?
Sister Mary Scullion emphasizes the need for comprehensive social policies, including building and preserving affordable housing, supporting renters and homeowners, and holding elected officials accountable. She also stresses the importance of community involvement, voting, and recognizing homelessness as a systemic issue that requires collective action.
How has Project HOME evolved since its founding in 1989?
Project HOME began as an emergency winter shelter in South Philadelphia and has grown to include 1,000 housing units across the city and two businesses that provide jobs to formerly homeless individuals. Its expansion reflects its holistic approach to addressing homelessness through housing, healthcare, education, and employment.
- The number of homeless people in the US reached 770,000 in January, the largest number since 2007.
- The number is considered an undercount, as it doesn't include people staying with family or friends.
- In some big cities, people who work with homeless populations report improvements.
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