Homelessness in Stark County: A Continuing Crisis

Homelessness on the Rise in Stark County

Introduction

Stark County in Ohio is grappling with a rising homelessness crisis, as increasing numbers of low-income individuals and families struggle to find affordable housing. The lack of affordable rental units has exacerbated the problem, making it difficult for those in need to secure stable housing. The county’s “Point in Time” count, conducted every January, reveals a steady increase in homelessness, both sheltered and unsheltered, over the past year. Additionally, organizations providing assistance to the homeless population have observed a sharp uptick in individuals seeking support. The surge in demand has strained resources and made it challenging to meet the basic needs of those affected.

The Numbers

According to the latest “Point in Time” count, Stark County recorded 320 individuals experiencing homelessness, with 264 being sheltered and 56 unsheltered. This marks an increase of 73 people compared to the previous year. The Homeless Continuum of Care of Stark County estimates that the number of homeless households has risen by 30% between July 2021 and July 2022. They reported 260 homeless households in the county as of July 29, 2022, compared to 180 the previous year. These figures paint a concerning picture of the growing homelessness crisis in Stark County.

Causes and Contributing Factors

One major contributing factor to the increase in homelessness is the lack of affordable housing options in the community. Renters should ideally spend no more than 30% of their gross monthly income on rent. However, Stark County currently has 10,900 renter households at or below 30% of the area median income (AMI), while there are only 9,195 rental units affordable to this group. Additionally, only 4,270 of these units are currently occupied by households within the 0-30% AMI bracket. This indicates a significant housing gap of 6,630 rental units for this income group. Limited housing stock coupled with high demand enables landlords to be more selective, making it even harder for low-income households to find suitable accommodation. Even having a housing voucher does not guarantee housing for individuals or families in need.

The Impact on the Community

The rising numbers of homelessness in Stark County have had a profound impact on the community. Local organizations providing assistance to the homeless, such as Clothed in Righteousness, have witnessed a substantial increase in the number of individuals seeking support. Monthly figures at the organization have steadily grown throughout the year, with the most significant surge occurring in June. Last year, Clothed in Righteousness aided 2,543 individuals, but in the first half of 2023 alone, they have already supported 4,500 people. The higher demand for essential items like non-microwavable food, hygiene products, adult underwear, and laundry detergent has made it difficult to keep their shelves stocked. These challenges highlight the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the homelessness crisis.

Action Taken and Proposed Solutions

The county has established the Homeless Navigation Hotline as the primary point of contact for individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. Those who reach out to the hotline undergo an assessment interview with a specialist who determines what housing programs they qualify for. If no immediate housing is available, individuals are placed on a priority list. The program also maintains a list of available shelter beds and collaborates with various organizations, including hospitals, law enforcement agencies, mental health agencies, and drug and alcohol treatment centers, to address the needs of the homeless population.

The Homeless Continuum of Care of Stark County is actively working with consultants to evaluate the existing system and identify areas in need of improvement. By analyzing data on individuals calling in, entering the shelter system, accessing housing resources, and exiting the system, they hope to allocate resources more effectively. The aim is to amplify financial and human resources in strategic ways to have the greatest impact on reducing homelessness.

Editorial and Advice

The increasing homelessness crisis in Stark County is a clear indication of the urgent need for action. It is crucial to recognize that homelessness is not an isolated issue but deeply interconnected with broader social and economic challenges. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach involving government agencies, community organizations, and individuals.

Investing in the creation of more affordable housing units is crucial to directly tackle the root cause of homelessness. Efforts should focus on increasing the supply of housing for low-income individuals and families, bridging the gap between demand and availability. This may involve working with developers, providing incentives for the construction of affordable housing, and implementing policies that protect renters from being priced out of their homes.

Additionally, comprehensive support systems that address the underlying causes of homelessness are vital. This includes bolstering mental health services, addiction treatment programs, and job training initiatives to equip individuals with the necessary tools to regain stability. Coordinated efforts between government agencies, nonprofits, and community organizations are essential to ensure that assistance reaches those in need efficiently and effectively.

Communities must also come together to support organizations providing aid to the homeless population. Donations of essential items and financial contributions can make a significant difference in assisting these organizations in fulfilling their mission. Furthermore, raising awareness about the issue and combating the stigmas associated with homelessness can foster a more compassionate and understanding community.

The rising homelessness crisis in Stark County demands immediate attention and proactive steps toward solutions. By working collaboratively and investing in long-term strategies, the community can seek to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable individuals and families, ultimately moving toward a future where homelessness is a rarity rather than a tragic reality.