A Rising Concern

Resident outside of City Mission

The Growing Crisis of Homelessness Among Seniors

In recent years, a startling trend in homelessness has surfaced, and it’s hard to ignore.  An increasing number of older adults are finding themselves without a home. In 2024, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Annual Homelessness Assessment Report, overall homelessness in the United States reached unprecedented levels, spiking by 18% compared to the previous year. Alarmingly, about 20%—or one in every five—of those facing homelessness are aged 55 and older.

“Here at City Mission, we’re seeing an increase in older adults,” said City Mission Director of Residential Programs, Leah Dietrich, “and we have seen it rise over the past 10 years. Over the last few years, we’ve seen an even faster pace of growth.”

Within the past year, 98 individuals aged 55 and over came through our doors as residents, which is approximately 1/3 of our overall resident population.  

But this rise in homelessness among older adults isn't just a statistic; it's a reflection of deep-seated issues that require immediate action. As we look deeper, the data tell a story of vulnerability, resilience, and a pressing need for change.

Why Are Older Adults Becoming Homeless?

The rise in homelessness among older adults is driven by a combination of complex factors.

First, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, the US population aged 65 and over soared by 34% over the last decade, and our country is simply not prepared to provide housing, services, and care for this surging population.  

Additionally, many in this age range are on fixed incomes, which do not match the escalating cost of living, particularly healthcare and housing expenses.

Research from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard highlights that the cost of long-term care is unaffordable for many seniors, and mortgage debt continues to burden an increasing number of older homeowners—30% of those aged 80 and over still have outstanding mortgages.  Also, the median mortgage debt amount for older adults has skyrocketed more than 400% since 1989.

“One of the challenges that lead older adults to come to us is lack of family support,” explained Dietrich.  “Some have gone through a divorce later in life or have lost a loved one.  They might need help managing their medications or taking care of everyday tasks.  When their family member or support person leaves or passes away and they have no one left to help them, it can be overwhelming.”

“Some of our older residents, who have worked their whole lives in trades, develop chronic health conditions or sustain injuries so they can no longer work,” added Dietrich.  “They end up on a fixed income that simply can’t keep up with rising rent, taxes, and utility costs.  One emergency or unexpected expense can lead to homelessness.”

Social factors further complicate matters.  Aging can lead to isolation from community and familial networks, worsened by physical mobility issues or chronic health conditions. This isolation makes older adults particularly susceptible to economic shocks and social withdrawal, which can ultimately lead to homelessness.

“Older adults can lose their sense of community,” Dietrich added.  “They can become disconnected or isolated due to divorce, loss of a loved one, loss of transportation, or loss of their work community.  It’s important for us to restore their sense of community.  We become the family they need to help them navigate an ever-changing world.”

Do Not Cast Me Away When I Am Old

Scripture urges us to honor and protect our older adults. Psalms 71:9 resonates deeply, reminding us: "Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone." This scripture highlights our responsibility to ensure the dignity and well-being of the elderly, affirming that they receive the support they need.

The Bible consistently advocates for respect towards the elderly, as seen in Leviticus 19:32, which instructs, "Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord."

We are called to be the hands and feet of God to provide care, support, and encouragement.  Through our actions and community efforts, we can embody the biblical ethos of support and respect for our elders, creating a nurturing environment that honors their contributions and upholds their dignity.

Compassionate Care and Life-Changing Programs

Addressing homelessness among older adults demands a comprehensive strategy that encompasses both immediate relief and long-term solutions. At City Mission, a Christ-centered rehabilitative shelter, we commit to transforming lives through a range of services including food, shelter, medical services, case management, Biblically-based counseling, and life-changing programs. Our approach is holistic, aiming to restore individuals fully by expressing God’s love in every action.

Our goal is clear: to assist each person who comes to us in moving from crisis to stability. Through our extensive services and community resource connections, we strive to ensure sustained recovery and independence for every individual we serve.

“We work to find community opportunities for our residents,” Dietrich said.  “We know what resources are available and have the ability to connect them to what they need.  They are looking for a sense of purpose and connection, and we can provide that.”

Right now, we are focused on helping our older adults improve fitness, mobility, and overall health.  Every weekday at 12:45, our staff hosts chair exercise sessions to help older adults learn to be active again.  Cindy Newman, our Manager of Medical Services, helps our older adult residents navigate through issues associated with chronic health conditions, by helping them manage medications, embrace a healthier diet, make appointments with specialists, and understand the impact a diagnosis can have on their everyday lives.  

For our older adult residents, we are also focused on offering financial training and digital education.  Volunteers come to the Mission regularly to provide budgeting classes and to answer in-depth questions that help our older residents feel confident making decisions that will restore them to independent living.  We also offer computer training that helps older residents feel safer online and builds confidence as they navigate online banking, book medical appointments, and rebuild relationships with estranged friends and family, online at first, which can springboard into meaningful and fulfilling reconnections.

“Our youngest residents and our oldest residents break my heart the most,” said Dietrich.  “No 19-year-old and no 90-year-old should be homeless.  People who outlive their family members who were taking care of them and now are without a home and a support system -- we have to do everything we can to help them!”  

How You Can Help City Mission

City Mission remains steadfast in its commitment to helping older adults regain stability and dignity. Here’s how you can contribute to this cause:

• Donate: Financial contributions support critical services such as healthcare, shelter, education, and food.

• Volunteer: Your time is a valuable asset. Assisting with daily operations or engaging directly with residents can make a significant difference.

• Advocate: Raise awareness about the challenges faced by homeless older adults. Sharing information, educating others, and advocating for policy changes are powerful ways to help.

Join City Mission in the Fight Against Homelessness

Addressing homelessness among older adults in Washington, PA, requires a committed and collective effort.

By engaging in immediate actions, supporting long-term solutions, and educating ourselves and our community, we can effect meaningful change.

Let’s unite to build a supportive and inclusive environment for every member of our community, reflecting the biblical principle of extending a hand to those in need, just as we are guided by our faith to support and uplift each other in times of need.

Join us in making a difference. You can also send donations to the following address: 84 W. Wheeling Street, Washington, PA 15301. For more details on donations or if you have any questions, feel free to call us at (724) 222-8530.

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March 17, 2025

Recent Articles

Thank you, Cub Scout Pack 1313

Cub Scouts Pack 1313 at City Mission's Crabtree Kovacicek Veterans House
March 14, 2025

Thank you to the Arrow of Light scouts of Pack 1313 in McMurray! We are so grateful for their generosity and hard work in supporting the homeless veterans at City Mission! This amazing group of scouts, made up of 8 fifth-grade boys planned and organized a community service project for the Mission as part of their citizenship adventure. They reached out to us to find out what items we need. Then, they worked together to create a plan to fundraise enough money to purchase all the items on our needs list. They set a fundraising goal of $500 and decided to create a video to get the word out. They wrote their own script and enlisted help from the Lions (Kindergarten scouts) to assist in making the video and raising funds. "City Mission holds a special place in our hearts as we have volunteered there for many years," said Jenna Mallegol of Cub Scout Pack 1313. "The scouts wrote the script for the video themselves, and the parents sent it out via social media." The response to their fundraising efforts was overwhelming, and they were able to raise more than six times their initial goal! In total, they raised $3,200. With that money, they purchased everything on our needs list and more: clothing for 30 veterans, toiletries, snacks, and coffee. They also purchased pizza for a pizza party with our veterans. And they had enough left over to make a very generous $2,000 donation to City Mission! Thank you, Pack 1313, for showing what kindness, leadership, and teamwork can accomplish to make the world a little brighter place. Your support means so much to City Mission and the veterans we serve.

A Year of Hope and Progress

Sally's Sanctuary under construction
February 27, 2025

A Year of Hope and Progress: Reflecting on 2024 at City Mission As we close the chapter on 2024, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible strides we’ve made together. This year has been marked by hope, progress, and an unwavering commitment to our mission of serving the homeless and vulnerable in our community. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the dedication of our staff, and the resilience of our residents, we have achieved milestones that will have a lasting impact for years to come. Breaking Ground on New Beginnings A major highlight of 2024 was the groundbreaking of Sally’s Sanctuary, our new 50-bed shelter for homeless women. This project, years in the making, represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide safe, supportive spaces for those in need. We also celebrated the completion of the Finish Strong Campaign, which enabled us to finalize the New Market Tax Credit and move forward with this critical project. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our donors, staff, and community partners, who continue to make our work possible. The year also brought a transition in leadership. We welcomed our new President/CEO, Diana Irey Vaughan, whose vision and passion have already brought fresh energy to City Mission. At the same time, we bid farewell to Dean Gartland and Sally Mounts, two extraordinary leaders whose decades of service have left an indelible mark on our organization. Their legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward. Community events like Gather & Give and Sweet Sunday, which saw record-breaking participation, reminded us of the incredible power of community. Of course, the year was not without its challenges. Balancing the demands of a capital campaign with our day-to-day operations required careful planning and difficult decisions. But thanks to the dedication of our staff and the generosity of our donors, we are confident that the steps we’ve taken will set us up for a strong and sustainable future. Key Achievements in 2024 In 2024, City Mission’s programs and services provided hope, healing, and a pathway to independence for many individuals. Here are some of the key achievements that made the year so special: • Meals: Our Food Service team served 84,912 meals, valued at over $211,430, to residents and community members in need. • Career Training and Education: Through the ANSYS Career Training and Education Center (CTEC), residents gained the skills and certifications needed for sustainable employment. In 2024, we celebrated: o 129 jobs obtained o 498 ID cards issued o 1,898 certifications earned • Medical Services: Our Medical Clinic provided 14,319 services, including 647 physician visits and 978 health screens, ensuring residents had access to critical healthcare. Partnerships with organizations like Centerville Clinics allowed us to offer comprehensive care, empowering residents to take control of their health. The success of these programs is reflected in our HEIRS success rates for residents who stayed 90+ days: • Men: 57% overall success rate • Women: 72% overall success rate • Women with Children: 57% overall success rate (with a 100% housing success rate) • Veterans: 88% overall success rate Celebrating Transformation Through Divine Grace Stories like Herman’s, who found stable employment and housing after entering our men’s program, and Krystine’s, who overcame addiction and became a leader in our women’s program, remind us of the transformative power of God’s work through City Mission’s in 2024. These stories are not just successes; they are testimonies to the miraculous impact of faith and God's grace in action. Join Us in Shaping the Future of City Mission As we look ahead, we are filled with hope and determination. The completion of Sally’s Sanctuary in July 2025 will mark a transformative milestone in our mission to serve homeless women with dignity and compassion. This state-of-the-art facility will provide a safe, welcoming space for women, but it is just one part of our broader commitment to addressing homelessness in all its forms. From providing meals and medical care to offering career training and addiction recovery programs, City Mission continues to serve individuals and families in need. Our work extends beyond shelter—it’s about restoring dignity, fostering independence, and building brighter futures. But our work is far from over. We still need your help to fully fund Sally’s Sanctuary and continue providing essential services to those who rely on us. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, your support makes all the difference. For more information on how you can get involved, visit our Ways to Help page or call us at 724-222-8530. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please reach out to our support team.

Homelessness reaches highest numbers ever recorded in 2024

Chelsea with her son, Quentin
January 24, 2025

Each year, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) produces their Annual Homelessness Assessment Report. In December, they released the 2024 report, and the results are heartbreaking. On a given night in January of 2024, there was a total of 771,480 people experiencing homelessness in the United States, which marks the highest number ever recorded and the largest increase ever year over year. Nearly all populations across the country reached record high levels, and eighteen different states recorded historic highs. The report lists multiple reasons for the dramatic rise: a worsening affordable housing crisis and rising inflation mixed with stagnating wages. It also cites natural disasters that destroyed homes and displaced homeowners, rising numbers of people immigrating to the US, and the end of pandemic-era social programs and supports. The most tragic findings in the report involve the effects on children and families with children. Nearly 150,000 children were identified, in HUD’s 2024 point-in-time survey, to be experiencing homelessness. That is a 33% increase from 2023, making children the age group with the largest increase from the previous year. Families with children increased 39%, making them the demographic with the largest rise in homelessness. These are foreboding statistics when you consider the array of negative effects homelessness can have on children. According to stophomelesschildren.org, homeless children experience four times as many respiratory infections, twice as many ear infections, and are four times more likely to develop asthma. Endhomelessness.org reports that children experiencing homelessness have higher levels of emotional and behavioral problems, are at greater risk for severe physical health issues, experience more depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues, and have poorer educational outcomes. At City Mission, we are standing up against the tide of homelessness in our area and fighting for the children and families in our community. We are called to be the hands and feet of Christ and to serve those who are hurting and have lost all hope. Our Women with Children shelter serves 11 homeless families. Each family has their own fully-furnished suite. When they arrive at City Mission, they are showered with love. Their needs are met and often exceeded. They get clothes, shoes, diapers, snacks, hygiene items, toys. They get a warm, safe place to rest and heal. They get a meal. They get a medical exam. Everything they need to feel safe and loved. We help them develop healthy routines, build supportive relationships. We help them learn, grow, and develop. We connect them to services like mental health counseling. We help them get medical insurance and connect them to a Pediatrician, who regularly visits our campus, through our partnership with Centerville Clinics. We offer childcare, so the mom has time to work on herself. We offer parenting classes, job assistance training, resume-building, drug and alcohol recovery classes. Our programs are holistic. Our services are compassionate. Our residents are loved and cared for every minute of the day, and those negative effects of homelessness can begin to melt away, because they have finally found a home. In 2024, the families in our Women with Children shelter who stayed at least 90 days, had an unbelievable 100% success rate for housing. That means that every single family who stayed 90 days or more successfully restored their lives to independence. Chelsea is a resident in our Women with Children shelter with her three kids. “When we came here,” she said, “my kids were kind of on the same level as me. We were out of whack. City Mission helped me get them on a structured day. My son struggles with some mental health issues that the Mission helped me address in the correct way, because I had no idea what to do. City Mission helped me to be a better mom. My kids love it here. They’re happy today, and that’s all thanks to City Mission and the help they gave me.” City Mission is changing the lives of families with children every day. You can help us in this cause. You can help restore families like Chelsea’s. Donate to City Mission today or call us to learn more at 724-222-8530.

Relapse Prevention During the Holidays

Feeling out of place at a party
November 26, 2024

The holiday season can be a time of celebration, joy, and togetherness for many, but for those in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, it can also be extremely challenging. Holiday festivities often involve alcohol, high-stress situations, and a break from daily routines, which can all, unfortunately, increase the risk of relapse. According to Narconon.org, the relapse rate for drugs and alcohol spikes at least 150% during the holiday season. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that the number alcohol and drug related fatalities on the road increases by up to 50% during the holidays. “Many of our residents will struggle with this time of the year,” said Brad Nelson, City Mission’s Manager of Veterans Services, who teaches a Holiday Relapse Prevention course to all of our residents who will be going home for the holidays. “We try to support them during this time with our Relapse Prevention Group. We try to identify the problems, and then we try to provide them with solutions. If you’re actively working a program of recovery, you’re going to be in a lot better place, and you’re going to be a lot safer.” Why the Holiday Season Increases the Risk of Relapse The holiday season is often filled with a mix of emotions, both positive and negative, and several factors can contribute to increased vulnerability for relapse: 1. Social Pressure and Temptation During the holidays, there is a greater emphasis on social gatherings, parties, and celebrations. For individuals recovering from addiction, these events can present a variety of challenges. Alcohol and drugs may be present, and the pressure to fit in can be intense. Old habits can resurface, especially for someone who feels isolated, disconnected, or vulnerable. 2. Stress and Anxiety The holidays can, unfortunately, bring about significant stress. From family dynamics to financial concerns, managing personal expectations, or feeling the pressure to be joyful, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. The emotional toll of dealing with family expectations, travel, or even memories of past holiday experiences associated with past trauma or substance abuse can cause vulnerability. For some, stress and anxiety can manifest as anger. Nelson explains, “Often times, anger is an issue for people in early recovery. It can even become a replacement for drugs. You can get euphoria from anger, so sometimes people will replace anger for their drug of choice.” 3. Loneliness and Isolation While the holidays are supposed to be a time for togetherness, many individuals in recovery experience loneliness or alienation. This feeling of isolation can be especially prevalent for those who are newly sober or distanced from family or friends. Many who are new to recovery choose to avoid friends and families specifically because they know there will be alcohol or drugs at holiday parties, but then that loneliness can lead some to relapse as they try to fill the emotional void they’re experiencing. “Loneliness can be extremely painful,” Nelson explained. “People who suffer from addiction often have a spiritual void, and even being around people or friends, they can still experience loneliness. We try to help them fill that void.” 4. Nostalgia and Triggers from the Past The holidays often evoke memories of past celebrations, some of which may have been filled with trauma or substance abuse. For many individuals, their relationship with drugs or alcohol may have been tied to holiday traditions, making it even more challenging to avoid relapse. The sights, smells, and sounds of the season can trigger cravings and emotions tied to these past experiences. 5. Lack of Routine and Structure For those in recovery, maintaining a daily routine and structure is vital to preventing relapse. During the holiday season, normal schedules are often disrupted with vacations, family gatherings, and time off from work. This lack of structure can lead to a sense of unpredictability or anxiety, which may cause someone to fall back into unhealthy behavior patterns or turn to substances to cope. Coping with the Holiday Season: Tips for Maintaining Sobriety The good news is that while the holiday season can undoubtedly be a challenging time for those in recovery, it’s also an opportunity to take proactive steps to protect one’s sobriety. “I believe,” said Nelson, “there’s only two reasons why people relapse. They are because they wanted to or because they didn’t get enough help.” At City Mission, we provide our residents the help they need during the holidays. Our Holiday Relapse Prevention group and our Safe Pass Plan program help our residents maintain their recovery during the holidays by helping them identify potential triggers and challenges and offering them tools and strategies to keep them safe. Here are some of those strategies: 1.Have a Sobriety Plan Having a detailed sobriety plan for the holidays is crucial. This plan can include strategies for handling difficult emotions, navigating social situations, or managing cravings. Having an exit strategy for situations that feel unsafe can help you stay in control and avoid making decisions that may jeopardize your recovery. At City Mission, before our residents leave for the holidays, they are required to create a Safe Pass Plan with their case manager. “Just because you’re in recovery, you don’t have to avoid weddings or anniversaries or concerts,” said Nelson. “You can do all the things that other people do provided that you are spiritually fit and have a plan.” • Communicate your needs: Let family, friends, or colleagues know about your recovery and ask for their support in creating a sober-friendly environment. • Set limits on social events: If you’re attending a party or gathering, know your limits ahead of time. Identify people who are likely to be at these events and people that it would be better avoid. • Have a plan for uncomfortable situations: Think through potential challenges you might face and how you’ll handle them and who you will contact if you need help. 2.Create a Support System “You should be attending meetings,” Nelson said. “You should have a sponsor and contact your sponsor every day.” One of the most crucial components of staying clean and sober during the holidays is having a solid support system. Surround yourself with friends, family, or fellow members of a support group who love you and want the best for you and who understand the challenges of recovery. Having someone to talk to or rely on during times of stress or temptation can make a significant difference in staying sober. • Attend support meetings: Many 12-step meetings and recovery programs remain active throughout the holidays. Make it a priority to attend these meetings. • Check in regularly: Whether it’s a daily text, phone call, or video chat, keep the lines of communication open with your support system. This provides emotional support and helps you stay connected to your recovery goals. 3. Pray “Addiction affects you biologically, mentally, and socially,” Nelson explained, “but the solution is spiritual. We know that Jesus is the answer. If you build a recovery program based on God and continue to work the program, we believe that you will have a successful recovery and a successful holiday.” Strengthening your relationship with God can create gratitude, purpose, peace, and fulfillment, which can all give you a deeper sense of value in your life and can give you the inner strength to make better choices. 4. Avoid Negative People, Places, and Things “There’s an old saying,” said Nelson, “if you hang out in a barbershop, sooner or later, you’re going to get a haircut.” If you continue to return to the same people, places, and things that you used to fill your life with when you were in active addiction, then you’re likely to eventually fall back into the same old habits. Instead of focusing on the holidays as they were in the past, try to create new, sober traditions that bring joy and meaning to your life. This could include volunteering, engaging in new hobbies, or spending time with loved ones in a different way. By focusing on positive and healthy activities, you can redefine what the holidays mean to you, separating them from the negative memories of substance abuse. 5. Remember Your Why During moments of temptation or doubt, it’s important to remember why you are in recovery in the first place. Reflecting on the benefits of sobriety—such as better health, improved relationships, or a clearer mind—can provide the strength needed to resist urges. Writing down your reasons for staying sober and keeping that list visible can serve as a powerful reminder during moments of weakness. 6. Celebrate Your Progress Recovery is a journey, and it’s important to take time to celebrate your milestones, no matter how small. During the holiday season, reflect on how far you’ve come in your recovery and the strength you’ve gained. Recognize your achievements and be grateful for the hard work you’ve put into staying sober. Conclusion The holiday season is often a time of joy, connection, and celebration. However, for those in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction, it can also be a period of increased vulnerability to relapse. But if you create a plan, surround yourself with the right people, and deepen your relationship with God, then you can have a safe and joyful holiday season! Click HERE if you would like to support City Mission’s ministry of bringing hope to homeless this holiday season.

Homelessness and the Holidays

City Mission at Christmas
November 21, 2024

15,000. That's the number of people without homes on any given day in Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. These aren't just numbers; they represent individuals and families without a home. The contrast is stark – while many decorate their homes and prepare festive meals, others seek shelter and wonder where their next meal will come from. This disparity reminds us of our communities' urgent need for compassion and action. Challenges for the Homeless During the Holidays The holiday season often amplifies the daily challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. In places like Washington, PA, dropping temperatures bring the harsh realities of winter, intensifying the struggle for warmth and shelter. Homeless individuals frequently face increased health risks and emotional stress during this time. At City Mission, we encounter unique challenges during the holidays as well. During the holidays, we work tirelessly to provide basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing and offer a sense of holiday spirit, faith, and community to those we serve. But, the increased demand for our services stretches our resources. Five Ways to Help During the Holiday Season Meeting these needs demands considerable support – from volunteers, donations, and community involvement. If you're seeking ways to contribute this holiday season, here are several options for you to consider: 1. Financial Contributions • Monetary donations play a crucial role in enabling City Mission to sustain our work. These contributions help cover operating costs and facilitate transformation by providing food, shelter, case management, biblically-based counseling, and life-changing programs. We are committed to restoring the whole person through a Christ-centered approach that expresses God's love for them. 2. Participate in our Angel Tree Program • Christmas is a time of giving. Through our Angel Tree program, you can make the holidays special for our residents. This program lists items that can be collected at your workplace or purchased through City Mission's Angel Tree Amazon Wishlist. These gifts are more than items; they are a message of care and remembrance. 3. Donate Warm Clothing and Essentials • Winters in Washington, PA, can be brutally cold. We encourage our community to donate warm clothing items like coats, gloves, scarves, hats, and socks. Essentials such as blankets, sleeping bags, and hygiene products are also vital. Your donations provide physical warmth and the comfort of knowing someone cares. 4. Volunteer • Volunteering at City Mission is a profound way to put your faith into action. We welcome individuals and groups to share their time, talents, and treasures. Whether serving meals, organizing donations, or spending time with our residents, every act of service makes a significant difference. 5. Offer Specialized Services • If you have specific skills or services, we can benefit from your expertise. Professionals such as counselors, tutors, healthcare providers, or anyone with a skill to share can significantly impact our residents' lives. Join Us in Spreading Hope and Warmth This Holiday Season Reflecting on James 2:14-17, it's clear that our faith calls us to action, especially during the holiday season. This time of year presents a unique opportunity to extend our hands and hearts to those in need, embodying true giving and compassion. At City Mission, we witness the impact of these acts of kindness daily. They provide immediate help and bring hope, faith and a sense of community. We invite you to join us in making a difference this holiday season, whether through volunteering, donating, or sharing this message of hope. We deeply appreciate your generosity and continued support. You can also send donations to the following address: 84 W. Wheeling Street, Washington, PA 15301. For more details on donations or if you have any questions, feel free to call us at (724) 222-8530.

Homelessness and the Holidays

Happy Holidays at City Mission
November 21, 2024

As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to family gatherings, festive meals, and joyous celebrations. However, for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, this time of year can bring unique challenges and heightened difficulties. The contrast between societal expectations of holiday cheer and the harsh realities faced by those without stable housing can be particularly pronounced. Understanding the Scope of Homelessness in Pennsylvania Before we delve into the holiday-specific challenges, it’s important to understand the broader context of homelessness within Pennsylvania: Statewide Impact: • In 2023, Pennsylvania's homelessness rate was 9.7 per 10,000 people, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable individuals across the state. • Eighty-six percent of people experiencing homelessness in Pennsylvania are considered "sheltered," meaning they are living in shelters, transitional housing, or receiving assistance, but still without a permanent place to call home. • Diverse Populations are impacted. Homelessness in Pennsylvania affects families with children, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. • Factors driving homelessness in Pennsylvania include job loss, lack of affordable housing, mental illness, substance abuse, and domestic violence. By understanding the scope of the problem and how we can act, we can bring hope to our neighbors in need during this season of giving. Holiday-Specific Challenges The holidays bring additional hardships for those experiencing homelessness, beyond the challenges they already face throughout the year. 1. Emotional and Psychological Strain The holiday season emphasizes family, home, and togetherness, which can heighten feelings of isolation and depression for those without stable housing. The expectation of joy and celebration often stands in stark contrast to the lived experiences of many homeless individuals, leading to increased emotional strain. How You Can Help: • Volunteer Your Time: Spend time at shelters like City Mission or community centers, offering companionship and emotional support to those who may feel disconnected. • Support Mental Health Initiatives: Encourage programs that provide counseling and mental health services to those experiencing homelessness in Pennsylvania. 2. Harsh Weather Conditions In Pennsylvania, winters can be unforgiving, and temperatures during the holiday season can be particularly harsh. For those without adequate shelter, exposure to cold weather brings increased risks of hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold-related health issues. How You Can Help: • Donate Winter Gear: Items such as waterproof coats, thermal underwear, wool socks, and sleeping bags are essential for helping homeless individuals stay warm. At City Mission we accept clothing, shoes/boots and clothing accessories at any of our thrift stores from 9am-4pm, our vocational training center from 9am-3pm, or any of our area donation bins . • Advocate for Year-Round Solutions: Help promote the development of more permanent housing options to ensure individuals aren’t left vulnerable to the weather. 3. Limited Access to Resources Many support services experience reduced schedules or resources during the holidays, making it harder for homeless individuals to access food, shelter, and other essentials. This can leave people in particularly dire situations as the need for basic necessities increases during winter. How You Can Help: • Spread Awareness of Available Resources: Ensure that homeless individuals are aware of which services remain open during the holidays by volunteering to distribute information or helping shelters communicate with the broader community. • Volunteer at Shelters During Holidays: Offering your time can ensure that shelters and essential services continue to operate smoothly during the holidays. • Support Continuity: Donate to shelters or nonprofits that provide continuous support throughout the year, particularly during times when resources are stretched. 4. Economic Challenges and Financial Exclusion For homeless individuals, economic struggles are a year-round challenge, but the holidays can amplify these difficulties. While many are focused on holiday shopping and gift-giving, homeless individuals often struggle just to meet their basic needs, let alone provide gifts for their families. How You Can Help: • Support Employment and Training Programs: Contribute to programs that offer job skills and long-term employment opportunities for individuals who are homeless. • Donate Gift Cards for Essentials: Gift cards for groceries or clothing stores can offer families dignity and the opportunity to provide for their children during the holidays. Making a Lasting Impact: Beyond the Holidays While it’s important to offer support during the holidays, homelessness is a year-round issue that requires long-term solutions. We are called to extend our compassion and generosity throughout the entire year, not just during festive seasons. Ways to Make a Lasting Impact: • Join City Mission’s Circle of Bread and Hope: Our Circle of Bread and Hope is a group of compassionate, community-focused supporters who commit to making a lasting and ongoing impact for the homeless in our area. You can make a BIG impact with a small, recurring gift. You can choose to give monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually – whichever method works best for you. • Stay Informed: Educate yourself and others on the root causes of homelessness and effective strategies for prevention and support. • Commit to Year-Round Volunteering: Make a long-term commitment to volunteer with local shelters and service providers to offer ongoing support. • Foster Community Partnerships: Encourage collaboration between churches, businesses, and government agencies to create a comprehensive safety net for the homeless. A Call to Compassionate Action The holiday season reminds us of our shared humanity and the importance of loving and serving one another. As followers of Christ, we are called to care for those in need, reflecting His love in everything we do. The barriers faced by homeless individuals during the holidays are significant, but through compassionate action, we can make a meaningful difference. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or advocating for change, each of us can contribute to making this holiday season a little brighter for individuals and families struggling with homelessness. You can offer our hurting neighbors healing and hope here at City Mission. Your gift provides the immediate help and long-term care local men, women, children and veterans need to rebuild their lives.

Contact Us
(724) 222-8530
84 W. Wheeling Street
Washington, PA 15301
City Mission is a 501(C)(3) Nonprofit registered in the US under EIN: 25-1051749
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