In 2023, North Carolina ranked #15 in the U.S for its problematic homelessness population (Wisevoter,2023). Those who suffer from being homeless can range from unaccompanied children to adults. Some who struggle with mental illness- a stable demographic being military veterans. Specifically in North Carolina, even with its subtle decline since 2007, there are still 4,500 unaccompanied youth, people in families, and veterans; this being just under half of the entire homeless population which was at 9,268 people in 2018 (North Carolina,2019). Since 2018, that number has risen to 9,280 people currently suffering in North Carolina (Wisevoter,2023). Homelessness has been an ongoing problem throughout the country, and its effects on a community are undeniable. Some problematic factors that can rise for those suffering personally from homelessness are an increase in victimization of homeless individuals and youths, and lack of proper health care for those suffering. Some adverse effects for the community due to homelessness population increase are an increase in trash accumulating on the streets, impoverished appearance of areas most greatly affected, as well as an increase in crime rate, and overall social and class division among members of the community. Some simple ways that the community can work to clean up their community starts with giving back to those less fortunate within the community. Whether it be volunteering to help victims directly; to clean up trash within communities; to donate to your local homeless funds; or to simply be kind to your fellow community members, there are always ways to get involved. Fighting back against homelessness is a team effort in our modern-day world, and an ongoing process. Yet, with enough support and effort from members of the community, the rate of homelessness can be expected to seriously decline, which would be beneficial for all members living within the community.
Resources
Homeless population by state 2023. Wisevoter. (2023, May 3).
North Carolina. National Alliance to End Homelessness. (2019, August 15).