BEDFORD – Men’s Warming Shelter of Bedford invites you to their fundraiser, “Building a Home for the Homeless” from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 26th at the Shelter, located at 1414 H Street.
Refreshments will be served and a presentation given at 5:30 p.m.
Please RSVP by emailing Heather at info@bedfordmenswarmingshelter.org.
Homelessness is a major problem in the United States, even in Indiana. The U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Annual Homeless Assessment Report announced 5,625 individuals were homeless in Indiana as of January 2020. This report also revealed Indiana experienced a 2.8% increase in homelessness over 2019 levels compared to a nationwide increase of 2.2%. Sadly 17% of these homeless individuals. were classified unsheltered, meaning they lived on the street or in abandoned buildings.
Homelessness is not just a big city problem. We know it affects Bedford and Lawrence County too as evidenced by the clients utilizing the Men’s Warming Shelter and Becky’s Place. Utilization of the Men’s Warming Shelter has increased dramatically over the past 5 years. During the 2017-2021 winter seasons, 206 homeless clients were served, totaling 4,395 overnight stays. Nationwide statistics indicate men represent 70% of homeless individuals.
What are the major reasons for homelessness:
- Lack of Affordable Housing
- Loss of Employment
- Poverty
- Mental Illness
- Substance Abuse
