Can you imagine not having a home to go to every day? That is the harsh reality for many people across the country. According to thecampaigntoendhomelessness.org, there are 34,642 homeless people living in metro Detroit, 5,536 of which are children under adult supervision, while 192 are unaccompanied minors. This is the highest homeless population in the state of Michigan.
National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week runs Nov. 12-20 and Detroit has a lot of work to do in diminishing the number of homeless citizens in the city.
The Homeless Action Network of Detroit (HAND) is a nonprofit that works to provide leadership in finding the best possible solutions for combating homelessness. Since 1996, HAND has been working to end homelessness by pushing for change in the community, analyzing data and securing funding. HAND raises over $25 million dollars annually in support of this matter. Coordinated by HAND, the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) is the only all-inclusive database on homelessness in Detroit. HMIS provides the most accurate information on the homeless in the city, what they need and what is being done to meet their needs.
HAND is hosting two events during National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week this year. On Wednesday, Nov. 16, they will host a free event called “Project Homeless Connect” where they will be giving out various services and resources to those in need. This event will also be an effort to educate people on homelessness. On Thursday, Nov. 17, they will host the second annual “Hustle to End Homelessness” where some of the best ballroom dance and hustle instructors in the city will be teaching the latest dances. Both events will take place in Detroit.
Some of the ways that you can help make a change is becoming a sponsor, making a donation, encouraging friends to participate and donate, and volunteering for HAND. For more information on events and what you can do to help, visit the website at handetroit.org.
