Helping Homeless Families
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Facts About Homelessness
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Facts About Homelessness
Homelessness permeates every facet of a child’s life. Children living in poverty are especially vulnerable to developmental delays, health risks, emotional trauma, and hunger.
According to the 2009 Metro Dallas Homeless Alliance Annual Census, of the approximately 5,675 homeless people counted in Dallas:
- 1,319 or 24% are children (up 2% from 2008)
- The largest number of homeless children in Dallas is between the ages of 1-3 years old at 23%
- 7% are less than a year old
- 18% are between 4-6 years old
- Overall, women and children make up 54% of the homeless population in Dallas
Facts About Homeless Children and Families*
- One-fourth of homeless people in the United States are children in homeless families
- 1.35 million children experience homelessness in the United States each year
- Almost half of all homeless children are between birth and five years old
Consequences of Childhood Homelessness**
- Poor health
- Hunger
- Mental health concerns
- Developmental delays
- Splitting apart of families
- Educational hardships
- Stresses that impact good parenting
The Vogel Alcove provides a critical link for homeless families with very young children and is the only comprehensive early childhood education program in the city of Dallas whose primary focus is to provide free services for homeless children who face multiple developmental risks. Because of the Alcove’s 22-year legacy providing quality, licensed childcare and social services for children victimized by homelessness, 18 area affiliated homeless and domestic violence shelter programs depend on the Alcove to provide critical services to the homeless families residing in their shelters.
Without free reliable and accessible childcare, homeless parents with young children would be unable to work, attend job training, complete an education, or find permanent housing.
* from the Urban Institute, 2001
** from the National Coalition for the Homeless, 2006 |
