MEDIA ADVISORY
The foreclosure and economic crises are significantly increasing homelessness and the number of families at risk of homelessness across the country and in Colorado. State of Emergency Backgrounder
(Denver) – The situation is bleak. Increasing rates of poverty, little if any affordable housing, escalating unemployment, stagnant wages, rising foreclosures affecting rental tenants, unforeseen healthcare and disability expenses, and exorbitant food, power and gas costs have converged to force more people than ever into the complicated isolation of homelessness. Men, women and children of all ages are affected. Mayors around the country are reporting an increase in the number of working families who are, for the first time, requesting assistance. In some school districts the number of homeless students has doubled from the already high volumes reported last year. Homeless service providers are stunned by the speed with which the recent devastating social and economic impacts have taken place. Experts predict that those who have been insulated from these problems in the past may soon be affected at home or at work. And, government organizations and private foundations that fund the social safety net are now faced with limited resources to respond to growing levels of unmet need. Individual donors have fewer dollars with which to give. We are faced with a state of emergency.
Colorado Coalition for the Homeless President John Parvensky will describe the emergency situation facing Colorado’s homeless as we enter the winter season. This includes record numbers of homeless persons seeking shelter and services at area agencies. Mr. Parvensky will detail proposed budget cuts that will have a devastating impact on homelessness. He will recommend short- and long-term strategies for responding to this state of emergency. What: Press Briefing, Date: Wednesday, December 17, 2008Time: 10:30 am – 11:30 amWhere: Stout Street Clinic, 2100 Broadway, Denver, CO 80205Who: John Parvensky, Colorado Coalition for the Homeless Homeless Individuals, Service Providers and Advocates
The mission of the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless is to work collaboratively toward the prevention of homelessness and the creation of lasting solutions for homeless and at-risk families, children, and individuals throughout Colorado. CCH advocates for and provides a continuum of housing and a variety of services to improve the health, well-being and stability of those it serves.
###