Let’s be honest: the issue of homelessness just isn’t as sexy as some of other ‘justice’ issues like the global water crisis, human trafficking, or shoes. Yes, I just went there.
The reasons for homelessness are numerous and complex but the numbers – indicating real people – are real. Very real.
- Approximately 2.3 – 3.5 million people are homeless each year in U.S. (Urban Institute)
- 12 million adults in U.S. currently are or have been homeless at some point in their lives. (National Coalition for the Homeless)
- The largest and fastest growing group of homeless folks are families with children, comprising 40% of the homeless population, mostly with single mother head of household. Average homeless family has 2.2 children. (HUD)
- 33% of homeless men are veterans. (HUD)
- 22% of single adult homeless population suffer from severe and persistent mental illness. (U.S. Conference of Mayors, 2001)
In the Seattle area alone, on any given night there are 7,980 homeless in Seattle/King County.
This is the main reason why Quest Church envisioned and funded a ministry called The Bridge Care Center and I can’t tell you how proud, encouraged, and convicted I am to be a part of this ministry. It’s the aspect of Quest that I’m most proud of this past year. What is the BCC? Continue reading “homelessness just isn’t as sexy…”
EUGENE CHO 