HARRISBURG, Ill. � The Southern Illinois Coalition for the Homeless reports that on any given night, an average of 550,000 individuals experience homelessness in the United States. From individuals to entire families, the plight of homelessness persists.
Executive Director Camille Dorris shed light on the local perspective and initiatives aimed at addressing this pressing issue.
“Following the health crisis of the pandemic� there was a new realization of how many people are homeless or on the brink of homelessness� And so there's been funding that has been put forth for not only supportive housing, but affordable housing in general, at both the federal and state level.� Dorris stated.
Dorris highlighted a surge in demand for housing assistance during and post-pandemic, particularly among those experiencing chronic homelessness. Chronic homelessness is defined as being without a stable residence for more than 12 months, or intermittently homeless for over three years.
Preparedness and Proactive Care
Dorris emphasized the significance of early intervention, urging individuals to seek assistance before facing urgent problems. “Reach out before it gets to the point where you are receiving an eviction notice.� she emphasized.
Individuals spending more than 30% of their adjusted gross income on household expenses, including rent and utilities, are considered at risk of homelessness.
Various avenues for assistance exist, including the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), governmental rental aid, and financial management services offered by local homeless shelters and care organizations like Dorris's own.
Seeking Aid
Dorris encouraged those grappling with housing insecurity to seek support promptly. Individuals can contact the Southern Illinois Coalition for the Homeless by phone at 618-993-0094 or visit their .
For further insights into this issue, excerpts from the interview are available on and our YouTube channel, WSIL Channel 3.
