Tuesday, April 05, 2005

Key facts about Texas homeless

Key Facts (Information from 2000)

Number of homeless in Texas. While estimates vary, the Council estimates that about 200,000 people, or 1 percent of the state's population, are homeless.


Mental illness. About 25 percent of homeless people in Texas suffer from a serious mental illness.


People with disabilities. More than 65,000 persons with disabilities did not have a regular means of shelter in 1999.


Women
. National figures indicate that women make up 19 percent of the homeless population. In Tarrant County, the percentage of women among the homeless population increased from 27 percent in 1991 to 48 percent in 1997. Estimates suggest that 30 to 50 percent of homeless women become so because of domestic violence, and 80 percent of the nation's homeless women have experienced some sort of violence.


Children. Estimates show that over 125,000 schoolage children in Texas experience homelessness during the course of a year.


Veterans. Estimates show that veterans comprise 30 to 40 percent of the nation's homeless population.

2 comments:

sammyjo93 said...

This really makes a person think about how just living in Texas, we as humans are so oblivious to what is around us. I encourage every one to step out of your comfort zone and lend a helping hand to those in need. Yes, you are probably thinking oh ok sure, but I'm 17 years old, and I absolutly love helping the homeless, they're not as bad as we think. If I ,being a teenager, can help the homeless, then why not the adults and other teenagers in Texas? Lend a helping hand and reach out to those whom need help the most.

Jeciboo said...

My uncle has a homeless outreach ministry in Fort Worth, I am hoping to Host and raise funds for a bra and feminine products drive soon for the women and teens that live in shelters and on the streets.