How the Economy is Really Affecting Families and Individuals – Homelessness Rises 16% in Utah

MARKET WATCH: Salt Lake City, Utah (Salt Lake County)

The true impact of our economic conditions has undoubtedly created homelessness. However, I was alarmed to learn of the true figures. During the 12 months ending May 2010, employment fell by 27,000 jobs, or 4.3 percent, to 602,600 jobs. The average unemployment rate increased from 4.8 to 6.7 percent during the same period. (We all know these numbers are not accurate and those numbers represented are very low). These numbers reflect Salt Lake County only. A recent story from KSL documents these numbers and also paints a bright side, which I numbers I do not agree with. http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=148&sid=3901253

New data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) shows Utah's homeless population increased by 16 percent to nearly 16,000 people. Nationwide record job losses and foreclosures helped push more than 170,000 families into homeless shelters in 2009, up nearly 30 percent since 2007.

It's been said that a program in the stimulus bill, the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program, or HPRP, (does this sound similar to HAMP & HAFA)? HPRP reportedly has helped 357,000 people nationwide by moving some from homeless shelters into their own apartments and by providing rent payments to prevent others from becoming homeless. 17 percent of HPRP money has been spent, but many of the organizations that distribute the money already have exhausted or committed their two- and three-year allocations. Some organizations were turning needy applicants away because of a funding shortage.

According to Reis, Inc., the 2nd Quarter 2010 vacancy rate in Salt Lake County increased to 7.1 percent, up from 5.9 percent a year ago. During the same period, the average apartment rent remained relatively unchanged at $747. Where do you think these people are going that are loosing their homes and jobs? Foreclosures are up and so are vacancies!

The only answer I can come up with is that people are doubling up or living in their cars. More than one family in each residence is going to be a trend we continue to see in the next few years. Mom's and Dad's . . . Clean out those basements!

For some reason, be it the profession I have chosen, or the country I live in, or maybe just my naivety, I have a very strong opinion that Americans should absolutely never be homeless, hungry or go without healthcare. The thought of so many people, so many young children going without the simple necessities that America has been know to provide for so many other countries is beyond maddening.

Winter is coming and I have great fears of what effect this may have on the homeless. Foreclosures are at an all time high, however just a very small percentage are on the market. These homes are sitting vacant, the homeowners have already left. Where are they now?

For those of you that have experienced these conditions or situations, my heart goes out to you. So few people have gone untouched by this economy and it could be me or anyone of us next. You just never know. However, all should know that this is the new face of homelessness in America. It's no longer the male who couldn't get or keep a job, or the Vet that was disabled and unable to find work. Our homeless are now more than ever middle class hard working men and women, many with families with small children. When will this madness end?

For those of you with the means, please donate. Our largest local shelter is The Road Home and donations are taken at: http://www.theroadhome.org/give