Homelessness: A statistics Snapshot Courtesy of The Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention

The Causes of Homelessness Lack of affordable housing Low wages Youth aging out of foster care Domestic violence Substance abuse Mental illness Prisoner reintegration

The Homeless Population in Indianapolis 6,000 – 10,000 of our neighbors will experience homelessness over the course of a year. 44,000 families are at-risk of becoming homeless. 26% of homeless people in Indianapolis live in families with children. Approximately 20% of our homeless have been victims of domestic violence. Nationally, women with children are the fastest growing demographic among the homeless

The Homeless Population in Indianapolis More than 30% have drug and/or alcohol problems. 30% have been affected by domestic violence. 13% are veterans. Nearly 30% struggle with a serious mental illness.

Homelessness and Children/Youth According to the Institute for Children and Poverty: Homeless children are twice as likely to repeat a grade in school. Over half of homeless students transfer schools each year. Of these, two-thirds transfer multiple times. One in ten homeless students misses at least a month of school each year. Homeless children are twice as likely not to be enrolled in preschool. The average homeless child in America is only 6 years old.

Youth Aging Out of Foster Care Research shows that youth aging out of foster care: Have low education and employment experience; Have high incidence of mental and physical health and substance abuse issues; Have high likelihood to be involved with legal system.

Domestic Violence and Homelessness Domestic violence is a leading cause of poverty and homelessness among women. Approximately 35,000 families experience domestic violence each year in Indianapolis. An estimated 700 local families may experience homelessness due to domestic violence each year.

The Cost of Homelessness Increased use of emergency medical care, mental health services and the correctional system. Connection between homelessness and poor health. Poor educational attainment. Loss of productivity.

Family Shelters: Catholic Charities Indianapolis – Holy Family Shelter Dayspring Center Interfaith Hospitality Network Queen of Peace Shelter Wheeler Mission Ministries – Care Center Battered Women Shelters: A Better Way Alternatives Incorporated of Madison County Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence Julian Center Quest for Excellence – Women in Need Growing Strong Salvation Army Social Service Center Shelter Wings Center for Women

Domestic Violence and Homelessness Response: Training for housing providers regarding special issues surrounding dv and homelessness. Raise awareness among policy makers and general public. Resource development.