The Faces and Families Behind Homelessness
With data continuing to emerge regarding Denver’s housing market, nationwide drug-abuse epidemics and other factors contributing to chronic homelessness, it is clear that many individuals are still facing uncertainty when it comes to food, shelter and safety.
10,774
people are experiencing homelessness in the Denver Metro area
80%
seek shelter with organizations like Denver Rescue Mission to stay safe overnight
30%
are struggling families, many experiencing homelessness for the first time
34%
have experienced chronic homelessness (1 year + or multiple times in several years)
20% of the total homeless population in Metro Denver are unsheltered, living on the streets, in cars, in abandoned buildings, under bridges, or camping in open areas.
Statistics provided by Metro Denver Homeless Initiative: mdhi.org/pit
Causes and Barriers
Homelessness is a complex issue that affects many people in cities across the country, and Denver is no exception. Some of the challenges facing those experiencing homelessness include:
- Lack of affordable housing:
Denver’s housing market has become increasingly expensive, making it difficult for low-income individuals and families to find affordable housing as well as keep up with rising rents and mortgage payments. - Chronic health conditions:
Disabling conditions or injuries and lack of access to proper healthcare can lead to further mental and physical health concerns which may affect employment status and ability to maintain stable housing. - Domestic violence:
Individuals attempting to escape domestic abuse or hostile environments may be able to remove themselves from the abuse or the environment but may find themselves with lack of support or resources to rebuild their lives after, which in turn could lead to homelessness. - Job Loss:
The high cost of living in Denver combined with limited job opportunities and low wages can leave individuals facing unemployment and their families struggling to make ends meet. - Substance abuse:
With the opioid epidemic leaving many in a crippling cycle of addiction, without access to proper treatment or services, many find it extremely difficult to obtain stability and break the cycle.
Creating Lasting Change
Changing lives for the long term is only possible by helping people identify the root causes of homelessness in their lives, and helping them address them. At Denver Rescue Mission, we are committed to helping people through the transformative love of Jesus Christ.