Helping Those in Need  Since December 2006, Heroes for the Homeless has been quietly helping the most vulnerable of the homeless in King County by distributing emergency and longer-term food, clean drinking water, hygiene products, clothing, and other outdoor survival supplies. Our goal is to help the homeless individuals we serve maintain their dignity and independence so they can stay out of the criminal justice system.
We are recognized as a public charity in the State of Washington and under federal tax code 501(c)3.
We serve up to 600 clients per month, year-round.
The TRUTH about Homelessness * Poverty is the leading cause of homelessness, NOT mental illness or substance abuse. * Other causes of homelessness include the lack of affordable housing, domestic violence, unemployment, divorce, emancipation from foster care, and release from incarceration without a transition plan into housing.
* On any given night in King County, over 9000 individuals are without a place to call home. Statewide, there are more than 20,000 individuals facing homelessness in Washington. * While food banks help fight against hunger in our communities, they are under-utilized by the homeless who cannot carry groceries for long distances, and lack transportation, cookware and cooking facilities.
* While single males account for the majority of homeless individuals; 20% are women and 18% are families with minor children. * The number of homeless individuals over age 50 is rapidly increasing. Those who rely solely on social security often fall short on rent, medical needs, and food. * One in five homeless individuals are employed, but they still cannot afford housing. Washington's minimum wage, although higher than federal standards, is only $8.55, well below a living wage. Furthermore, many homeless individuals are unable to secure consistent full-time work, relying instead on part-time, temporary or the occasional odd-job to make ends meet. * Millions of Americans do not have health insurance. Unexpected illness or disability can easily cause someone to become homeless. * Crimes committed against the homeless go largely unreported. They include hate crimes of a violent nature, rape, harassment, police brutality, discrimination, theft, and murder. Women, the disabled, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.
* It is extremely difficult to find housing and employment once a person enters the criminal justice system. Even for those who resort to stealing food or hygiene products out of desperation, the stigmatism and long-term effects of even a minor a criminal conviction can be devastating.
* Wait lists for low-income/affordable housing in King County can exceed two years.
* Securing a Section 8 voucher does not mean a person will obtain housing. There are many people with these federal subsidy vouchers who cannot find an apartment to rent. It is currently legal in Washington State for landlords to discriminate against potential renters based on income.
* Shelters are not always the best option for the homeless because of overcrowding, the rampant spread of disease, violence, unsanitary conditions, and drug activity. There are no shelters for married couples or pet owners. |
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