I was
performing a needs and risks assessment with a participant the other day at my
internship. When I asked how many months
she had been homeless she stated four years, so I calculated and kept going. At
first it was alarming to hear a number like that, but after further reflection
I realized that I had heard even worse numbers than that so I did not think
twice about it. Reflecting back on it makes me realize how the scope of
homelessness to me has changed.
Moving to Denver was so exciting!
Visiting a few times before assured me of the beauty and wonder in the
surrounding landscape. However, even years ago when I first came through Denver,
I could not help but notice the level of homelessness visible within the city.
It was difficult to see and to understand how such a seemingly well off city
with rapid growth could have this. I guess that is the problem.
While
working at The Empowerment Program I have been able to meet women from all
backgrounds more often than not struggling with housing. Instability is a major
contributor to addiction and illegal activities for the women at Empowerment,
and stable housing is often a struggle they have. Every time I do the
application I feel blessed that I get to help them in any way I can, however it
could take months to hear back if at all. Seeing their faces when I mention it
could take two months to even hear back is heartbreaking considering that’s
another two months that she will be on the street and there’s only so much I
can do to help. The sobering truth is that there is just not enough affordable
housing so service providers have to do their best for their clients who just
want a place to sleep without being worried about others invading their
sleeping space. I have learned a lot so far but I feel as though it is just the
tip of the housing iceberg in such a complicated system.
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