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The number of homeless families in the United States has steadily increased over the last year, after several years of declining numbers, according to a new report released by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  Surely, the economic downturn and housing crisis has disrupted the stability of many people, but it’s also clear that better strategies need to be developed to accommodate for the specific needs of homeless families.  The challenges of living without permanent shelter are undoubtedly multiplied, and all the more heartbreaking when children are involved.  The HUD report reveals that of the 1.6 million people living in transitional housing or shelters, families account for one third of that number, and that doesn’t even include the many people surviving outside of the system.

The slightly encouraging news is that the number of homeless individuals has remained relatively flat, but even those numbers are hardly a consolation to those in need of assistance.  Helping to give voice to those families and individuals is Mark Hovarth, who is currently touring the country interviewing homeless people about their experiences.  I’ve featured Mark’s remarkable work often here on TakePart, and the Los Angeles Times recently reported on his use of social media to raise awareness about homelessness.  Hopefully by listening closely to the needs of families and individuals, non-profits and government organizations like HUD can develop more comprehensive strategies to curb the rising numbers of homeless and ultimately put an end to it.