In the Houston region, 50% of homelessness is caused by an economic crisis (job loss, bills become higher than earnings), debunking common stereotypes that homelessness is overwhelmingly caused by substance use – which actually accounts for less than 10% of homelessness locally (from Coalition for the Homeless). The 2022 Homeless Count & Survey shows that we can expect to see 3,223 people experiencing homelessness at any given moment in the Houston region. We all see the homeless begging on street corners in our various cities or tents set up in parks or under freeways. How did their lives lead to homelessness, we may ask ourselves. What can we do? First, we can become better educated on the issues surrounding homelessness. Then we can proceed to donating, volunteering, or even advocating for these individuals or families.
Becky Blanton planned to live in her van for a year and see the country, but when depression set in and her freelance job ended, her camping trip turned into homelessness. In this intimate talk, she describes her experience of becoming one of America's working homeless.
Our own Active Rotarian, Chopin Kiang, has shared on the club's WhatsApp that in 1984 he stood in food lines in North Las Vegas at the Catholic Social Services "receiving the blessings of hot meal and a hot shower". At that time, Chopin was a working homeless school teacher living in a car on the streets of Las Vegas for four months. Chopin shared, "I don't ever want to forget the dread and sense of hopelessness which many of our neighbors in our midst are going through every moment of their 24-hour day and night." He has shared his cooking talents (6 pans of Kielbasa Mushroom Bellpeppers Egg & Cheese casseroles) partnering with Compassionate Care United to serve hot meals to the homeless in Conroe, Texas.
These two personal stories demonstrate how hope and community support can change lives. Many fine individuals, once successful with secure housing and employment, may succumb to unexpected life changes. Yet, these same folks can benefit from our encouragement and support, even becoming citizens who are committed to helping others. We are thankful for the opportunity to know Chopin in our Rotary club and honored to follow his example of generosity of giving to those in need,
This holiday season is upon us and we encourage all Rotarians to find their passion for giving, Happy Holidays!