Local Trends Reflect National Scope of Hunger and Homelessness

“When you take into account we’re dealing with layoffs, reduced wages, foreclosures and the toll they’re taking on hard-working individuals and families, the struggles of our neighbors are no different than in larger metropolitan areas,”

—LaCount Anderson, CBF Global Field Personnel,
serving The Eastern NC Poverty Network

Roanoke Rapids, NC.––During 2010, the number of people experiencing homelessness increased across major cities by an average of 2 percent, while requests for emergency food assistance rose by 24 percent.

These statistics spotlight the widely recognized impact of rising unemployment, housing costs and lost wages on America’s most vulnerable sections of society, as cited in the U.S. Conference of Mayors 2010 report, “Hunger and Homelessness in U.S. Cities.” The survey, which studied 27 major metropolitan areas between September 2009 and August 2010, was released this month.

While cities in Northeastern NC were not among the cities studied, CBF missionary, Anderson says the findings reflect trends challenging our citizens right here at home.

“When you take into account we’re dealing with layoffs, reduced wages, foreclosures and the toll they’re taking on hard-working individuals and families, the struggles of our neighbors are no different than in larger metropolitan areas,” Anderson said. “They experience fear and frustration at wondering how they’ll feed their kids next week or if their next paycheck will be their last. We have to be here to help if and when the worst happens.”

Specifically, the survey found that of those requesting food assistance, 56 percent were persons in families, 30 percent were unemployed, 19 percent were elderly and 17 percent were homeless. Among homeless adults in the surveyed cities, 24 percent are mentally ill, 20 percent are physically disabled, 19 percent are employed, 14 percent are victims of domestic violence, and 14 percent are veterans.

In 2010, Union Mission, where Anderson works, provided more than 3,000 nights of safe shelter for those with no other place to go and served 2500 meals to the homeless and working poor. “The bottom line is people in Roanoke Rapids and towns in northeastern NC are hungry, homeless, and they need our help,” Anderson said. “I’m grateful to live in a community where these individuals aren’t seen as numbers, but as children of God with so much to offer—if we can give them a safe place to stay, wholesome food and the guidance and resources they need to make their own way. With the continued support of our compassionate partners and donors, CBF’s Eastern NC Poverty Network can provide these basic essentials and life-building opportunities.”

The full report issued by the 2010 U.S. Conference of Mayors can be found online at www.citymayors.com/features/uscity_poverty.html. Additional information on CBF’s Eastern NC Poverty Network’s programs and services for homeless and hungry men, women and children is available at www.thefellowship.info/anderson