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Economy: Homeless Indicator The number of homeless or at-risk individuals served in DuPage County has increased markedly since 2001.
ABOUT THE INDICATOR The extent of homelessness in a community is a reflection of the economy and, in particular, of how the economy is affecting those who are most vulnerable to economic downturns. Data for this indicator are based on the actual number of individuals served by P.A.D.S. (Public Action to Deliver Shelter). The mission of P.A.D.S. is to enhance the quality of life for homeless or at-risk individuals within DuPage County. Although there are many other organizations that serve the homeless, client data from P.A.D.S. were selected to illustrate trends in the needs of the homeless in DuPage County. OBSERVATIONS In 2002, after three years of steady decline, the number of persons served by P.A.D.S. increased. In fact, during the July 2001 to June 2002 period, 1,159 people obtained shelter from P.A.D.S.– only slightly less than the all-time high of 1,208 experienced during the corresponding 1997-1998 time period. The number of people seeking services from P.A.D.S. remained high in the July 2002-June 2003 period, when 1,152 people were served. TAPESTRY People seeking shelter from P.A.D.S. represent only a portion of the homeless in DuPage County. According to a July 2003 report from the DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform, 3,000 individuals (40 percent of whom were under the age of 17) living in DuPage in 2001 had no permanent residence. The causes of homelessness are varied. The Federation report indicated that homelessness in DuPage was most often the result of a lack of affordable housing or insufficient wages. Most of the homeless in DuPage are unmarried or recently divorced mothers and their children. Although these women work—as office workers, receptionists, or store clerks―the money they earn is not enough to afford housing or necessities in DuPage County. However, other factors, including substance abuse, mental illness, domestic violence, and a poor economy, can also lead to homelessness. Economic indicators such as housing and rental costs and unemployment rates can provide early warning signs about potential growth of the homeless population. Continued escalation of housing costs could force more lower-income individuals out of their homes, as could a personal economic crisis such as the loss of one’s job. Trends in indicators related to substance abuse, binge drinking, mental health status, and family violence can provide additional insights into the problem of homelessness. COMMENTARY By Carol Simler, Executive Director, DuPage P.A.D.S. “It’s a common misconception in this area. Many people in DuPage County believe that homelessness is a problem only in the big cities and that suburban middle-class communities don’t have the homeless concerns that some other towns do. It’s simply untrue. DuPage Public Action to Deliver Shelter, Inc. (P.A.D.S.) has been providing shelter to the homeless in DuPage County since 1985. Homelessness is a melting pot of issues stemming from any combination of characteristics in terms of economic, sociological, or psychological factors. In most instances, the persons served by DuPage P.A.D.S., Inc. have experienced a great deal of turmoil and/or upheaval in their lives from early childhood through adulthood. Depending on individual circumstances, the duration of homelessness varies from days to months to years. The complexity of homelessness in DuPage County presents a challenging and relentless struggle for individuals (and families) without food and shelter. Without adequate assistance in the form of comprehensive services that are accessible on demand, the system can actually facilitate a person remaining homeless or experiencing additional complications that continue the crisis. The presenting crisis of homelessness can be addressed when an individual first contacts DuPage P.A.D.S., Inc. for food and shelter. Change can begin after the individual is stabilized and can access a wide array of support services that address their obstacles to self-sufficiency.” HOW TO GET INVOLVED OR LEARN MORE
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