Number of Homeless Families in Pinellas Takes a Big Leap Skyward
Survey Says… The number of homeless children and families are reaching never-before-seen proportions in Pinellas County and surrounding areas.
Pinellas Park, FL (VisionWire) 1st June, 2009 – The numbers are unsettling- more than twice the number of kids and teens are homeless compared to just two years ago. According to a report by a local agency, 961 kids below the age of 18 were homeless in 2007, compared to 1944 this year, representing 31.2 % of the homeless population in the county.
And in what may be an indictment of the County’s ability to handle this greater than ever dilemma, the number of homeless sleeping in places not meant for human habitation (abandoned buildings, cars, streets, sidewalks) increased from 1,221 to a whopping 2232. Gregory Rolles, the Community Education Coordinator for the Pinellas County Coalition for the Homeless, said the economy “is a great big factor” in the big jump in the numbers being cited by his agency’s report. He went on to say that he believed there was “a significant increase” in the overall homeless population during this period, by as much as 40%. In fact, according to a report by that agency that came out in May of this year, there was an unprecedented 82.7% increase of the numbers of unsheltered families and individuals since 2007.
Karen Bolden, Executive Director of ASAP Homeless Services of Saint Petersburg, said she believed the numbers in the report to be “absolutely accurate”, citing the rising demand for services at her agency, as well as the fact that her husband participated in seeking out the people living in the woods, under bridges, etc. She went on to say that she would like to see the “purchase of buildings” to facilitate housing opportunities for the homeless.
Pastor Jeffery Polhill of Touched by an Angel Ministries, Inc., had this to say: “Yes, the problem is serious. Yes, more funding and resources are needed to meet the immediate needs of the community. If we could get a small monthly commitment from local businesses, we could make this a better place for everyone. It would be a wise investment into their community; we know a three-cord strand is not easily broken.” Touched by an Angel Ministries endeavors to house homeless families with children and adults and provide life-skills training and education.
When pressed further on the issue, Pastor Polhill revealed the intentions of his ministry to relocate to an as yet undisclosed location in Pinellas Park. “I will say this,” said Pastor Polhill, “We intend to establish a self-sufficient community of families, single parents, and working adults. There will be a Day Labor facility on-site, as well as a restaurant/convenience store, laundry-mat and a well known cell phone franchise service location. This will al be run and staffed by our clients. The Day Labor will actually have a dorm for our workers to have a place to shower and lay their head. This of course will provide a safe, drug-free and alcohol-free environment for them.” It was also stated that a local Police Precinct is already established at the location.
“The potential is endless,” said James Hobbs, Pastor Polhill’s assistant, “Jeffery Polhill treats his clients like his own flesh and blood. His heart for the children is pure, patent love. No question. God has great things in store for this ministry. We eagerly anticipate the future as it unfolds, one day at a time.”
For additional information on the homeless problem in this county and what can be done, visit http://www.touchedbyanangelministries.org.
About Touched By An Angel Ministries, Inc.:
The ministry was established some 2000 years ago when Jesus said “As you have done unto the least of these my brethren, you also have done unto me.” We endeavor to serve the homeless and disadvantaged people of Pinellas County. We are especially concerned for the welfare of our children. They are the answer to breaking the cycle of addiction and generational sufferings. The children truly are our future. Help us rewrite the future today.
Contact
Jeffery Polhill, director of public relations
Touched by an Angel Ministries, Inc.
727-895-1901
http://www.touchedbyanangelministries.org