COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Officials in central Ohio are trying to figure out why the rate of family
homelessness in the area is rising despite a nationwide decline.
The Columbus Dispatch reports (http://bit.ly/11aKzuf ) figures released last month
by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development showed the number of homeless families across
the country had decreased by 15 percent since 2010. But estimates show family homelessness in the
Columbus area increased by 7.6 percent during that time.
by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development showed the number of homeless families across
the country had decreased by 15 percent since 2010. But estimates show family homelessness in the
Columbus area increased by 7.6 percent during that time.
Analysts say the well-known family shelter system in Columbus could attract a larger number of families
seeking help. Other factors for homelessness include low-wage jobs, a lack of affordable housing, cuts
to welfare and mental illness and addiction.
Officials say they plan to research local homeless families and the system currently in place to help
them.
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Information from: The Columbus Dispatch, http://www.dispatch.com
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