Generation Invisible

 

Need I Say More?

Much Needed Fun for Homeless Children

I have been working at the homeless coalition as an AmeriCorps VISTA for 7 months now and each week I still find myself surprisingly shocked at the amount of children residing in our safe house shelter.

Just a couple of weeks ago, we had 22 children in our shelter -- this week we have 14.  It breaks my heart to see countless children and families come through our doors each week needing immediate shelter -- but one thing is for sure -- I am glad that we can help.

I can't imagine what it must be like to be a homeless child -- to be faced with the harsh reality that you don't have your own bed, your own home, and many times -- food to eat.  I can't imagine the weight that these young souls carry with them daily -- hearing their parent's talk about not having enough money to provide the basic essentials that their family needs. 

As a VISTA, I am in a unique position to be that change I wish to see in the world -- honestly, one doesn't need to be a VISTA to do this -- anyone can make a difference in the lives of others.  However, being a VISTA has allowed me the opportunity to do some incredible things and has provided me the platform in which to do those things -- things like putting together a fun day of activities for our shelter children.

With a generous donation of a bounce house from Galactic Bounce in North Port -- we were able to provide these amazing children with a fun-filled day of back-flips, bounce basketball, and endless trips down the bouncy slide. Donna Baggott, a regular CCHC volunteer and remarkable face-painter came to the event and spent hours painting beautiful butterfly, kitty-cat, and dragon faces on our children -- who just loved every minute of it. A local DJ even came to provide hours of non-stop music and entertainment.  Food was also provided by New Hope Church who hosts a BBQ once a month for the homeless in the CCHC parking lot.  All-in-all -- it's just what everyone needed -- a moment to just laugh and enjoy each other and leave their worries behind -- if only for a moment.

I personally would like to thank everyone who made this event possible -- especially my fellow VISTAs -- David and Courtney.

One Love,
Kelly

Who Am I (a poem)

Who am I?

I am but a face, I have a voice but am not heard.

I am seen but, am not seen by so many.

I walk amongst you, but, not beside.

I am like you in many ways, yet I am different as well.

I am perceived as dirty, unkempt, and other words of disgust.

I am to be loathed and feared, and so am misunderstood.

I am a drunk, a druggie, vagabond or bum.

I am deemed worthless, a wretched soul with no use.

I am sometimes hunted for the infliction of pain.

I am ridiculed at times, spat upon or shoved aside.

I am at times forgotten and just passed by.

I am nothing more than "one of them."

I am a Mother's Son or Daughter.

I am a Brother or a Sister, A Mom or a Dad.

I am an Uncle, Aunt or even a Grandparent.

I am a friend or a neighbor or someone you knew.

I am surrounded by many but am so alone.

I am made of flesh of bones and blood.

I am hungry and tired, I am sometimes young and sometimes old.

I am cast away and now see the world in a different view.

I was like you once, I had a home in which I dwelled.

It was like yours made of nails and wood, sturdy and sound.

The roof kept me dry when the rains came down.

The walls kept the cold nights at bay when I lay down to sleep.

I was like you once in so many ways.

I too thought I would never be like "one of them."

I now am "one of them," the forgotten and the shunned.

I am a mere face that is often overlooked and a voice that is not heard.

I hear your words as you pass me by.

I see your eyes as they look away or look at me with disgust.

I am no longer part of a world which I once lived in.

I am nothing more to you than "one of them."

I now have no home, no bed or walls.

I am hungry, tired and sometimes cold.

My roof and walls are made of cloth and threads and leak in the rain.

I shiver at night when the cold winds blow.

I have feelings -- so many it seems.

I, like you, feel happy and pain, laughter and sorrow.

My eyes show my inner self but not as I was.

Now they show wonder and fear the twinkle has left.

Who am I -- you ask and what does this all mean?

The answer is simple.

I am a Mother's Son.

How quickly you forget, I am a person.

-- Author Unknown
Thank you to whomever you are that wrote this and put it on my desk! One Love -- Kelly

The Homeless Coalition (a poem)

The Homeless Coalition

by Larry Adams

Homelessness, what is it I say?

Some say it's a choice

Some just live that way.

For me, homeless is guilt and shame

For when I threw out my back

It was never the same.

I lost my home

When the money ran out

And then the car just broke down.

On to the street

Hanging my head

Wake in the morning

Just wishing I was dead.

Where ever I go people look and then stare.

"I don't know him -- what do I care!"

And then one day

I heard of this place

Where people really care

You're not just a face.

I was able to shower

And eat a hot meal.

To some that's not much

To me it's a big deal.

They gave me a bed

With a roof over my head

And in the morning I ate donuts and bread.

I got new clothes to wear

And shoes on my feet.

 There were others around

Who were just like me.

I talked to my case manager

To see what I could do

They helped with housing, more clothing, and even school.

So now I ask what homelessness is?

It's millions of people and LOTS of kids.

So don't hang your head

Or hide in shame

Get a helping hand up

You'll NEVER be the same.

The Many Talents of Charlotte County's Homeless

I don't think many people in society realize how much talent is lurking in our woods, our shelter, or our community in general.

Homeless people are people just like you and me --the only difference between you and them...is your house.  Before you turn a blind eye to those who are in need, ask yourself "Could that one day be me?"

One Love,

Kelly

Mental Health, Substance Use Disorder, and Homelessness

My mission as the coordinator for the Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau is to educate my community about the multifaceted issues surrounding homelessness and poverty – while providing support and teaching self-advocacy to my homeless and formerly homeless brothers and sisters.

Additionally, it is my goal to help the Charlotte County Homeless Coalition build a self-sustaining program that will act as a platform for these men, women, and children to finally have a much needed voice within their community, state, and country.

In addition to my work with AmeriCorps, I am proud to say that I am also a board member of NAMI-Charlotte County. As a member of NAMI, I hope to help raise awareness to the complexities of mental illness and co-occurring disorders as they relate to poverty and homelessness and to advocate for those who have increasingly become invisible to our society.

It is my opinion that society has forgotten that we are all in this together and I feel like many of us get caught up in our own lives – ignoring the fact that some of our fellow brothers and sisters are out here struggling.

It’s as if we are walking through life with blinders on “If it isn’t directly affecting me then why should I worry about it?”

The fact of the matter is we are all affected by these issues whether we choose to realize it or not. We have to change our mindset or things will only get worse.

I don’t think many people realize that the only difference between them and someone who is homeless – is their home.

Homelessness has become an enduring presence in American society. According to reports, more than 630,000 individuals are homeless in this country on any given night--keep in mind, however, that this number is significantly under-counted.

About a third of all adults who are homeless in this country have substance use disorders, and many have co-occurring mental illnesses, as well.

Approximately 45% of homeless individuals suffer from an untreated Axis I mental disorder such as anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, clinical depression, schizophrenia, schizo-affective disorder, and severe personality disorder.

An estimated 150,000 to 200,000 individuals living in this county suffer from severe schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

For homeless individuals, mental illness plays a key role in keeping them on the streets.

PTSD is also very prevalent among the homeless population – most notably among our veterans.

Approximately 40% of homeless men are veterans, although veterans comprise only about 34% of the general adult male population.

Over 45% suffer from mental illness and half have substance abuse issues.

It is estimated that some 22 million American’s have substance abuse or dependency problems.

The federal government postulates that these issues cost our country around 40 billion dollars a year.

Because housing stability is essential for treatment and recovery from addiction – homeless men and women that suffer from addiction issues usually have nowhere to go but deeper down into their addictions.

Recent studies indicate that the cost of providing permanent, supportive housing for people with serious mental illnesses or substance abuse issues is more than offset by the savings incurred by the public hospitals, prisons, and shelter systems.

We as human beings have a responsibility to our fellow brothers and sisters who are suffering from poverty, homelessness, mental illness and addiction. Yes we know that providing programs and services costs money – but did you know that the actual dollar costs to our society and economy is higher if we don’t invest in housing and supportive services? These essential programs not only get people off the streets, they also bring Federal dollars into our community where the money can then be recycled 5 or 6 times over within our local economy.

When nothing is done, people with serious mental illnesses and/or co-occurring substance use disorders who are homeless often cycle between the streets, jails, and high-cost care, including emergency rooms and psychiatric hospitals. This is inhumane, ineffective, and costly.

On the brighter side, research indicates that people with serious mental illnesses and co-occurring substance use disorders who are homeless, once believed to be unreachable and difficult to serve, can be engaged into services, and can accept and benefit from mental health services and substance abuse treatment, and can remain in stable housing with the appropriate support systems.

We know what works--now we must take what we know and implement it.

It is important that efforts to end homelessness address the substance use treatment needs of this particular population. These efforts can be modeled and supported at the Federal and state levels, but the real work takes place with us--in the communities where these individuals live.

The human and financial toll of homelessness for people with serious mental illnesses and or co-occurring disorders in incalculable.

Importantly, strategies to prevent and end homelessness among people with serious mental illnesses or co-occurring disorders must be based on a strong foundation of knowledge about who these individuals are, why they are susceptible to homelessness, and what has been done to learn more about their characteristics and service needs.

Unfortunately many programs are tailored for this specific population, instead of with them – which is why some researchers believe that no matter how many times a person enters treatment, they often fail to recover.

Much of what we know attests to both the extreme vulnerability and the remarkable resilience of this disadvantaged and disenfranchised group. Most importantly, however, is the fact that people who are living with mental illness and co-occurring disorders can and do recover.

Housing First is the most affective avenue for people to reach and remain in a housed and productive place in society.

Having a safe and stable home is crucial for anyone to recover from poverty, mental illness, or substance abuse disorders. And while having a place to call home is a social and financial responsibility, it also gives us an enormous sense of dignity.

When we begin to live our lives with new found joy, self-respect, and a sense of self-worth, healthy choices are likely to follow.

Research and practice reveal that communities can reach out to people with mental illnesses and substance use disorders; engage them in treatment; and create local partnerships to increase availability and access to affordable housing, employment, and treatment and supports to help prevent and end homelessness.

Understanding how to do so, however, begins with knowledge about why people with mental illness and addictions are vulnerable to becoming homeless and why they have a difficult time exiting homelessness.

It’s important for us all to remember that people who are homeless are people first. The fact that they may have mental illness or co-occurring disorders doesn’t diminish their rights, their responsibilities, or their dreams.

In many cases, these individuals become homeless because they are poor, and because mainstream health, mental health, housing, vocational, and social service programs are unable or unwilling to serve them. Furthermore, they also become subject to ongoing discrimination, stigma, and even violence.

By law in America, the rights of individuals without housing are equal to the rights of those with housing – However, as we have seen; many cities establish laws and practices that violate the basic human rights of these individuals.

Studies indicate that a person with a mental illness has a 64% greater chance of being arrested for committing the same offense as a person who does not have a mental illness.

Shockingly, out of the top ten meanest cities in our country for the criminalization of the homeless--4 are in Florida.

Another problem is the “not in my backyard” syndrome that many communities have adopted. This can come in many forms such as vocal community opposition to group living situations, or they can be less obvious, such as steering public funds away from housing initiatives that serve controversial populations.

When these individuals have no-where to live, they can and usually do, end up living in the woods, jails, and other institutions.

Probably no condition is as closely connected with homelessness as chronic alcohol dependence.

Conceivably, the homeless could have been stereotyped as unemployed men who needed jobs or job training, as elderly people who needed our concern and care, or as individuals who were physically and mentally disabled. Because, instead, they were stereotyped as alcoholics, the societal answer to their problems often relate to some form of institutionalization, whether jail or detoxification program.

I think want many people don’t realize is that addiction is a psychological disorder that affects behavior. Drug addiction has well-recognized cognitive, behavioral, and physiological characteristics that contribute to the continued use of drugs despite the harmful consequences.

I have met numerous addicts in my lifetime and never once has anyone ever told me that they want to or enjoy being addicted to drugs or alcohol. In fact, many want desperately to stop but are, in many cases, unsuccessful despite countless attempts at treatment and sobriety.

A contributing factor to this failure is the lack of support systems available for these individuals once they exit treatment. Often times, family and friends turn their backs on these individuals because they are fed up with the cycle or they themselves don’t have the support and knowledge needed to cope with this often traumatic rollercoaster ride.

Without the ongoing care and persistent advocacy that family members provide, many people with serious mental illnesses or substance abuse issues are at greater risk of becoming homeless.

Another reason why so many of the chronically homeless fail to recover or refuse treatment is due to negative experiences. Research indicates that this population is difficult to re-engage in services once they have had a negative experience with an unresponsive treatment system. Therefore, when working with these individuals, it is essential to their recovery that they feel safe and can trust those who are advocating for them.

Much like those with mental illness, people with substance use disorders can and do recover. Studies show that 55% of individuals who remain in AA for more than 90 days will be sober after one year, and 50% will be sober after 5 years.

The very fact that people who have serious mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders have learned to survive on the streets speaks to their strength, their resiliency, and their perseverance, all of which are protective factors that can be harnessed to aid in their recovery process.

Street life for these homeless men and women can be confusing, dangerous, and frustrating. Individuals shuffle unsteadily between detoxification centers, shelters, bus stations, day programs, jail, abandoned buildings, and soup kitchens. It is a painful life complicated by, but also made more bearable because of, the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol.

Although only about 5% of people with serious mental illnesses are homeless at any given time, as many as two-thirds of all people with mental illness have experienced homelessness or have been at risk of becoming homeless at some point in their lifetime.

Once homeless, people with co-occurring disorders have more problems, need more help or are unable to benefit from services, and are more likely to remain homeless than any other group of people.

Unfortunately homeless men and women who suffer from addiction related issues are less likely than those with mental illness or co-occurring disorders to qualify for Federal disability benefits – in large part because individuals with substance use disorders, no matter how serve, are not considered disabled under Social Security Administration guidelines – even though many researchers would argue that substance use disorders are a very disabling condition.

Making matters worse, people with serious mental illnesses and or co-occurring substance use disorders that are homeless require a broad range of housing, health and mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and social services, all of which typically are provided by separate agencies with separate funding streams. The burden of coordination falls on the individual, but people with serious mental illness or co-occurring disorders, especially those who are homeless, are ill-prepared to negotiate a fragmented service system unaided.

A lack of coordination between the hospitals and community-based providers to ensure appropriate housing, treatment, income, and supports means that these individuals fall through the cracks in the system and may – as a result – become homeless.

Recovery from homelessness, much like recovery from mental illness and or substance use disorders, is a process. Researchers define recovery from homelessness as being sober, employed, and housed; identifying six themes that support this process: spirituality, self-insight, security, self-awareness, support, and suppression of poor self-concepts and negative attitudes.

Lack of support or connection to others may be the single most important factor as to why people become and stay homeless.

For many homeless individuals, outreach workers are the first to break through the isolation and begin to move people toward a life of greater health and personal stability. This requires compassion that can be translated into concrete action.

It is about regarding all human beings as intrinsically valuable. Person-centered values are at the heart of a system that empowers people with mental illnesses and substance use disorders to recover.

These individuals deserve to have a choice in housing, treatment, and support services. They deserve to have a voice – to have a say in the programs, policies, and services that are designed to serve them.

They deserve to feel empowered by being educated and allowed to make choices in matters affecting their lives.

They deserve to have dignity and to be treated with the same respect that others demand for themselves, and they deserve the opportunity to be hopeful -- because we all know that hopelessness only breeds helplessness and despair.

Homeless Children and Youth Act (H.R. 32)

America's children need YOUR help! Please support the Homeless Children and Youth Act--also known as H.R. 32--before these children fall victim to the homeless epidemic that continues to plague the lives of America's new generation: "Generation Invisible."

Thank you,
One Love
Kelly

What A Week!

This has nothing to do with homelessness...but can I just tell you what an exciting week I had...First I was on a conference call with the White House...when the President got on the phone and told us all how proud he is of all of us and the work we do...and if that wasn't enough...I had the pleasure of meeting my hero this weekend...The Amazing Dr. Temple Grandin!

Honestly, I have had a really amazing life and have been blessed with incredible opportunities that most people never get the chance to experience...but this past week...well...nothing can compare!

If you can conceive it...YOU CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN! So go make your dreams come true!

One Love,

Kelly

A Day With Diane

What an amazing day we had yesterday! Diane Nilan, award winning film-maker and humanitarian, joined us at the Charlotte County Homeless Coalition to talk about what it is that she does and how others can get involved.

Ashley Gouin and I had the pleasure of sitting down with her for a short interview....here is part of that interview...



Kelly: How did you get started on this journey -- documenting the lives of homeless individuals and families?

Diane: Well um I was...my previous job was working with the school districts in the Chicago-land area...305 school districts helping them understand and implement the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act. And one of the pieces that just seemed very...very much missing was something where--someone who had no experience or knowledge of homeless persons especially students....that they could hear from the kids. And...and so...there really wasn't anything appropriate out there. So I was getting ready to um...a friend of mine and I were working on this and we hired...we got a grant and hired a film crew and were all set to do the filming...to do a short video for training and got told that our...my project was being de-structured...restructured...whatever...and um it ended up, you know hitting the buzz-saw of reality. So I was profoundly disappointed because I knew that having a video tool to train people, educators, an beyond...about...you know...sensitivity towards homeless kids and awareness of their situation...I knew that would be invaluable so I just found myself knowing that I was going to need to make a career change at the end of my grant period -- in three months -- and it was just one of those things where I just kinda found myself arguing with myself..."Well...you think...what are you gonna do...I don't know...I wanna work with homeless people...I wanna use all the knowledge that I have." So it just became a matter of sitting and kind of thinking "Alright you can make that film if you think that's so important" and then from there I like "Yeah, I could probably do that" and "How am I gonna do it and where am I gonna go"...and I knew I could stay in Illinois and just travel back and forth between Chicago and Aurora and around and you know could have enough...plenty of people to talk to...but I wanted to create something by talking to people in areas where no-body thinks there's homelessness...In remote rural communities, in resort communities, then small towns and middle sized towns...away from the urban aspect of homelessness. So I just ended up um...deciding that if I was...I'd have to sell my townhouse...which really kind of bummed me out...because I had a really nice townhouse...1100 sq.ft...I had two other people living with me at the time...and I knew that was going to up-end them...as much as me...but I just knew that I couldn't manage having...keeping that and doing this and so I sold my townhouse...bought the motor-home myself and um...then I started a non-profit Hear Us and started raising funds and getting a video camera...and having somebody tell me how to use it and started traveling...that was the beginning...which just seems like a hundred years ago -- 7 years ago...(laugh).

Kelly: So you live in Illinois?

Diane:  Well that's my address on my driver's license...I spend some time in Illinois...um...but not a whole lot. I...most of the time am on the road... so I might spend a total of two months a year in Illinois and then the rest just...everywhere else.

Kelly: What is the most touching or heartbreaking story that you have heard?

Diane: I was in Reno, Nevada...and had met three sisters...one seven years old...one ten...and one thirteen...in their school settings and had interviewed them during the day in their school settings...and they were you know, good interviews...and pretty willing...and um...somebody had arranged for me to go to their shelter...it was the Family Promise Shelter So I went there at night and hung with them and you know they were....there's not a lot of people around...so it was kinda like having a friend over...So I was their friend and they were showing me all around...so I hung with them that night and shot some more footage...and you know...felt kind of like somebody in their lives...and found out a day or two later as I was leaving Nevada...I got a phone call and I was told that there had been some disagreement of some serious nature between their mother --who has also a newborn and another mom at the shelter and the families were put out...so I thought "Well that was probably pretty serious"...but I knew each of the girls had very clearly said in a number of different ways as I talked to them...that they just didn't want to have to move again and loose their schools and loose their friends...and all of the things that kids just don't usually get a chance to say...and they said to me and so um...and I guess the family had nobody in the area that they could turn to for any kind of help so the you know...children and family authorities ended up I guess putting them on a bus...giving them some sandwiches...and putting them on a bus for a 14 hour bus ride...and I just...because I knew them enough to know that was going to be traumatic for them and I just was kind of driving and I was thinking of those kids and thinking  of how heartbroken and it was just so so sad that we have to do that to families.

Kelly: ...and it's happening to so many...

Diane: Yea...right...right...and it was just one family of thousands and thousands that at some point during that day had the same sort of thing happen in some way. So that has kind of (sigh)...you know...has kind of kept it real...And I have certainly encountered other families that have had other traumas that have...you know...that I've known about and plenty that I haven't known about.

Kelly: Do you ever feel that you are beating your head against the wall with these issues? I mean, does it seem that there is an end to homelessness in the near future or no?

Diane:  Well I've gotten over the "end homelessness mantra"...um...just not that I don't think we can end it...cause I think if you put me in charge for a few weeks...I could probably...um...at least make a pretty good dent in it...um...(sigh)...of course if I had the magic wand to go with that...that responsibility...but um...yes there is times where I feel like I'm beating my head against the wall personally...um...but every single time that I have that feeling...which I think is just human...I get an email or a voicemail...or some message from somebody that comes out of the blue that says "I love what you are doing and it's really helpful"...and I'm going..."Who said that?"...(laugh)...and it's just a weird sort of thing...So anytime I do have what is the normal human feeling of "Oh my gosh...what am I doing?"...I just kinda take a breath and go "You'll find out!"..."just keep going and keep doing" and you know...I think of the families that I've met and the youth that I've met...and they don't have the luxury of  saying "Oh I don't wanna do this anymore." I mean...my life has been so gifted...so that I just can't say..."Well you know what...I'm pretty well over this kind of homelessness thing...I'm gonna go run a jewelry store or something." It's just...I am where I am...for reasons that I am...and if I don't run with it...then shame on me.

Kelly: That's a good point...

Kelly: What would you like to see done in regard to raising awareness to the severity of this national crisis?

Diane:  Oh I would like to see...um...not just President Obama...but certainly...um...major people in...you know...leaders in our country...to stand together and say this isn't tolerable...and to commit to the resources that can really address the issue as opposed to these pathetic band-aids that are so ineffective...that it's just prolonging it...And so I think it's a national initiative that goes from top to bottom and bottom to top...it would make...you know...and it's not just homelessness...family homelessness...youth homelessness...it's the poverty that has just fueled the fire...So, you know...I...it needs to be a huge commitment...multi year...multi level...multi everything...but it needs to happen. You know...I can't look at the faces of the people that I know that are in the situation and say...I think everything is being done that we could possibly do...because it's not.

Kelly: What can others do to get involved?
 
Diane:  Well...you know...I believe in a compassion epidemic...that's...you know, I really think we need a compassion epidemic...and that we can all do something to that end. On my website  I have a compassion epidemic action guide...so that people at different levels...you know...different people are going to be able to do different things...and some can write a check...some can show up...you know...with their shoes on the ground...and some can...you know...do all kinds of things. So I think
doing something according to your gifts and abilities is what needs to happen. Certainly...everybody who is a constituent of members of congress...which means pretty much everybody...should be able to contact their members of congress and you know...say "Hey...support H.R. 32 "...I mean...that's a bill that could really start to change the way this country deals with homelessness. So I see that as...we need to do systemic as well as service.




For more information on Diane Nilan and her amazing documentaries, visit her website at www.hearus.us

Thank you Diane...we miss you already!

Cardboard Campout

This past Saturday, I had the distinct pleasure of representing the Charlotte County Faces of Homelessness Speakers' Bureau at the Cardboard Camp-out that was sponsored by the Living Waters Lutheran Church in North Port.

This event brought together local organizations and youth groups for the purpose of educating the community about the many issues surrounding homelessness in our community...state...and nation. It was refreshing to see so many individuals (especially kids)  taking time out of their busy schedules to come together in support of the cause.

We hold the key...and together...We CAN change lives!

Children in the community set up tents to experience what it might be like to be homeless.

Our Faces of Homelessness info table.

Chris and Patty work together to build a "cardboard home."

Local youth build cardboard houses to sleep in.

Chris hard at work constructing a house for the North Port Commissioner to sleep in.

Ty and Chris building houses.

Teamwork!!!

Chris and the pastor from Living Waters Lutheran Church (host of the event).

Community interaction at its best!

Lisa and Chris putting the final touches on the Commissioner's "Cardboard Condo."

Chris taking a moment to show off his handy work.

Adam from the Suncoast Partnership to End Homelessness - Sarasota, speaking about their initiatives to prevent and end homelessness in their community.

Chris Gregory - Faces of Homelessness speaker for Charlotte County...doing his part to raise awareness.

Chris talking about "Community."

What you missed....

My name is Kelly Hunter and I am an AmeriCorps*VISTA. Many of you may be asking yourself…”What is AmeriCorps and what is a VISTA?” In simple terms, AmeriCorps is the domestic version of the Peace Corps…and VISTA stands for Volunteers in Service to America. 

AmeriCorps’ poverty-fighting program was created in 1964 as part of the War on Poverty….the VISTA program started with only 20 members and before the end of 1965…more than 2,000 individuals were working in various regions of this great nation.  

In the past 18 years, more than 775,000 American’s have served as AmeriCorps volunteers. 

Every day in communities across America, AmeriCorps members are making a powerful impact on the most critical issues facing our nation…and I am proud to say that I am one of more than 80,000 individuals currently engaging in direct service and capacity building throughout the United States.

VISTA members serve full-time for one year with more than 1,000 project sponsors; focusing on capacity-building opportunities including raising funds, recruiting volunteers, and designing sustainable programs.

I volunteer with the National Coalition for the Homeless – as the local coordinator for the Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau for Charlotte County.

NCH is the nation’s oldest grassroots advocacy organization dedicated to ending homelessness. Founded in 1982, we focus on four main issues: affordable housing, healthcare, living wage, and civil rights. We do this through lobbying, advocacy, legislation, and public education.

My mission as the coordinator for the Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau is to educate my community about the multifaceted issues surrounding homelessness…while providing support and teaching self-advocacy to my homeless and formerly homeless brothers and sisters. 

Additionally, it is my goal to help the Charlotte County Homeless Coalition build a self-sustaining program that will act as a platform for these men, women, and children to finally have a much needed voice within their community, state, and country.

It is my opinion that society has forgotten that we are all in this together…and I feel like many of us get caught up in our own lives…ignoring the fact that some of our fellow brothers and sisters are out here struggling.

It’s as if we are walking through life with blinders on…”If it isn’t directly affecting me…then why should I worry about it?”

The fact of the matter is…we are ALL affected by these issues…whether we choose to realize it or not. We have to change our mindset…or things will only get worse.

I don’t think many people realize that the only difference between them and someone who is homeless…is their home.

During the past 8 years that I have been back in Charlotte County…I have had the distinct pleasure of working alongside these individuals…and I have to tell you…the majority of the people I have met in the woods…are very intellectual and extremely talented…with more to offer than we give them credit for. 

What is that old saying….”Don’t judge a book by its cover?” I think we are all probably guilty of making assumptions and judgments about people based on the way they might look…So today, I am here asking for your help in changing the public perception of homelessness. 

There are many myths and stereotypes that plague the lives of our nation’s homeless…and I would like to take a few minutes to touch on those…

I’d like you to close your eyes for a second and picture a homeless person…what comes to mind?

When the majority of people are asked this question…they say a dirty drunk or lazy bum…Well…I am here to tell you that the face of homelessness is not that at all. 

Now, I am not saying that there aren’t homeless individuals out there who have issues with substance abuse…but the percentage is relatively small in comparison. In fact, only about 22% of Charlotte County’s homeless population has or has had issues with drugs or alcohol. 

Another common misconception is that the majority of homeless individuals choose this way of life.

Are you aware that there are approximately 83,957 children currently homeless in our state…that is not in the nation…that is in one state…OUR STATE! And I can guarantee that none of those children chose to be homeless.

If you can’t picture what that number looks like…imagine the Miami Heat basketball arena filled to capacity and multiply that by four…that is just homeless children! 

One homeless child is too many…nearly 84,000 is an absolute tragedy…I stand before you today asking all of you…how did we let this happen and what are WE as a community…as a state…and as a nation…going to do to change this?

We are failing our future generations before they have even had a chance to experience life and the effects of poverty are going to be detrimental to what many now refer to as “Generation Invisible.”

Children comprise the greatest numbers and percentages of people currently living in poverty.

Alarmingly, more and more families are unable to afford childcare; as a result, many 3 and 4 year old's aren’t going to preschool.

Research indicates that children from low-income families who start kindergarten without first attending a quality education program enter school an estimated 18 months behind their peers.

Many never catch up and are more likely to end up out of work or making less money than they would have otherwise. Even worse, some of these children may eventually end up in prison.

Florida is currently ranked 3^rd behind California and New York for total number of homeless persons. We are also ranked 42^nd in the nation for our inability to provide adequate services to homeless children…to me…that’s embarrassing, as well as heartbreaking.

A few minutes ago I asked you to think about what homelessness looks like…now I want you to think about how people become homeless…

People become homeless for many reasons, including but not limited to: natural and man-made disasters, fires, family problems, loss of jobs, lack of health care, domestic violence, substance abuse, mental illness, lack of affordable housing, and lack of a living wage. 

It would appear that as a nation…we are “lacking” in virtually every area necessary to our survival.

In the United States over 3.5 million people will experience homelessness this year alone. Approximately 1.5 million of those individuals will be children.

The other day…I was conducting some research on poverty statistics…and was fascinated to learn that the total number of people living in poverty who worked full time or part time jobs is significantly higher than those who did not work at all…I guess that dispels the myth that people become homeless because they are too lazy to work.

As if all of this weren’t enough…Florida is ranked 2^nd in the nation behind California for hate crimes against the homeless. Over the past 13 years, advocates and homeless shelter workers from around the country have seen an alarming nationwide increase in reports of homeless men, women and yes…even children being killed, beaten, and harassed.

These attacks have permeated every corner of our society, resulting in at least 312 deaths and 872 non-lethal attacks including beating with golf clubs, rape, and setting victims on fire while they slept.

What I am about to tell you…may disturb you…as it should…the majority of these horrific crimes are being perpetrated by children and young adults…the youngest reported perpetrator was only 9 years old…

My son just turned 9…and when I look at him…I can’t imagine how someone so young could do something so horrible…but it’s happening right here…in our backyards every single day.

I ask you…”What does this say about our society…about what we are teaching our children…our future leaders?”

A recent report released by NCH suggests that the states with the most crimes against homeless people tend to be both in areas with warm climates and in areas where communities have taken measures to criminalize homelessness.

Florida’s warm climate is conducive to outdoor living, and many cities throughout our state have enacted anti-camping, panhandling, anti-feeding, and other criminalization of homelessness laws. 

Many of the cities mentioned in NCH’s bi-annual criminalization report are also cities where hate crimes against homeless individuals have occurred. 

In fact, four of the ten meanest cities identified in this report were right here in Florida.

When communities criminalize homelessness, they send the message that homeless people do not matter and are not welcome in their communities.

So if these individuals and families are not allowed to sleep in our woods…or congregate in public places with the rest of us…then where would you suggest that they rest their weary bodies? Because I have yet to meet anyone who could levitate.

I challenge each and every one of you…to help educate our community about what it means to be homeless…because frankly folks…none of us are immune to this…it could happen to anyone of us…with the blink of an eye.

You may be sitting here wondering to yourself…”What can I possibly do…I am only one person…these issues are far bigger than anything I can bring to the table.” 

Honestly, it only takes one person to generate change…You may not have money to give…but you do have time…even if it’s only an hour a month.

Actually, the easiest and most affordable thing a person can do…is help spread the word…talk to your friends and family about what you have learned here today…maybe you can inspire those around you to get involved.

You can even write to your Congressmen and Senators – encouraging them to support policies and laws that protect the rights and well-being of ALL people…not just the select few. We need to remember…these government officials work for us…we don’t work for them…and it’s time for them to do their jobs.

If you would like more information about the Charlotte County Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau or about the various things that you can do to generate positive and productive change in your community…please visit our website at www.cchomelesscoalition.org    or call us at 941-627-4313.

One Love

Kelly

Florida's Homeless Children

When I first started this journey in January...there were an estimated 70,000+ homeless children here in Florida...Recent reports have indicated that there are now nearly 84,000 homeless children in this state...not the nation...in ONE state.

One homeless child is too many...83,957...is a total outrage!

So what are WE as a community...as a state...and as a nation...going to do to change this?

We are failing our future generations before they have even had a chance to experience life and the effects of poverty are going to be detrimental to what many now refer to as “Generation Invisible.”

Children comprise the greatest numbers and percentages of people currently living in poverty.

Alarmingly, more and more families are unable to afford childcare; as a result, many 3 and 4 year olds aren’t going to preschool.Research indicates that children from low-income families who start kindergarten without first attending a quality education program enter school an estimated 18 months behind their peers.

Many never catch up and are more likely to end up out of work or making less money than they would have otherwise. Even worse, some of these children may eventually end up in prison.

Florida is currently ranked 3^rd behind California and New York for total number of homeless persons. We are also ranked 42^nd in the nation for our inability to provide adequate services to homeless children…to me…that’s embarrassing, as well as heartbreaking.

As a nation...we appear to be "lacking" in every area necessary to our survival.

Adventure Buddies

What an amazing week! Ashley (my AmeriaCorps*VISTA sidekick) and I had the most amazingly wonderful day yesterday. We had the chance to go out and meet a variety of local homeless individuals...who...I must tell you...had so many incredible ideas on how to help end homelessness. The conversations were so raw and honest and we couldn't believe how welcome they all made us feel. Currently, we are working on a Video/documentary about Charlotte County's homeless population.

As our Adventure Buddy Chris would say...."It's about caring about people...CARE ABOUT PEOPLE!"

Until next week...please enjoy..be safe...be merry...and go out and get to know the people in your neighborhood...especially the homeless...they are people too...with amazing stories to share.

One Love,
Kelly 

Generation Invisible

Alarmingly, more and more families are unable to afford childcare. As a result, many 3 and 4 year olds are not going to preschool.

Research indicates that children from low-income families who start kindergarten without first attending a quality education program enter school an estimated 18 months behind their peers.

Many never catch up and are more likely to need special education services and to drop out altogether. Furthermore, they are more likely to up out of work or making less money than the would have otherwise and more will eventually end up in prison.

Currently, there are an estimated 70,633 homeless children living in Florida. Nationally, 1.6 million are homeless throughout the year. (Bare in mind that these numbers are significantly under-counted as many families are afraid to tell anyone they are homeless out of fear of loosing their children).

Despite the growing numbers, homeless children are invisible to the majority of society...they have no voice...

It is up to US to be their voice...
www.nationalhomeless.orgwww.cchomelesscoalition.org
www.homelesschildrenamerica.org

Where Do We Go From Here?

The state of Florida is in the midst of a crisis in its ability to provide adequate shelter and affordable housing for homeless individuals and families.

Florida is currently ranked 42 out of 50 in the nation for its inability to provide quality services to homeless children (more than 70,000 children in the state are homeless -- right at this very minute -- that is 4 Miami Heat Arenas filled to capacity). One homeless child is too many...70,000+ is beyond any words in my vocabulary.

According to the Department of Children and Families' (DCF) most recent report, there are approximately 85,907 persons homeless on any given day in our state; and only about 9,000 emergency shelter beds and an additional 13,000 transitional shelter beds are available to provide lodging to the entire homeless population in this state....Keep in mind that 85,907 is highly under-counted...

What's more frightening is the fact that Florida has led the nation (for the past 6 years) in violent attacks on homeless people. These horrific acts are generally committed primarily by our nation's housed youth and young adults.

So where do we go from here? How to we change the fate of our state and its homeless citizens? The answer isn't easy...there is no cardboard cutout solution...but it starts with US...If we do not raise awareness by educating ourselves, our youth, our government, and our community as a whole...on the issues that surround homelessness, these crimes and inadequate services will continue to plague the lives of our nation's invisible people.

Myth vs Fact Part 1

It is alarming to me that society continues to not truly understand the issues surrounding homelessness. What's more are the multifaceted misconceptions that society has regarding homeless individuals. The purpose of this post is to address the various myths associated with homeless people and to replace those myths with fact-based information...

Myth # 1:

The majority of homeless people choose this way of life.

Fact # 1:


In Florida alone, 70,633 children go without homes, food, access to healthcare, and education every year -- They DO NOT choose this lifestyle.

Fact # 2:

Of all the homeless families living in Florida, 2/3 are living on the street.

To be continued... 

Hello and Welcome!

Hello World! My name is Kelly Hunter and I am the Speakers' Bureau Coordinator for Charlotte County's Homeless Coalition. This is Day 3 of my year long amazing adventure. My goal with this blog is to help raise awareness regarding the multitude of issues surrounding homelessness in America...to break down the barriers that separate society and the homeless...to dismantle the stereotypes surrounding homeless people...and to ultimately help end homelessness for good.

In this blog you will be exposed to the raw truth...and hopefully you will be inspired to take part in generating positive change in your community and eventually the world.

Gandhi once said "Be the change you wish to see in this world"...in my opinion, those are words we should all aspire to live by.

To be continued...

www.cchomelesscoalition.org