Homelessness is not a choice…. Help IS! Homelessness is not unique to in town Atlanta communities: it is becoming a growing problem in surrounding counties as well.
United Way data shows that approximately 2/3 of homeless calls originated in counties that surround the Atlanta area. The fastest growing group of homeless people is children under 9 years of age.
Atlanta is the poorest city in the U.S. for children – more children in Atlanta live in poverty than in any other city. 48% of all the children in Atlanta live in families with annual incomes of less than $15,000 a year.
Almost 40% of homeless in the US are under 18 years of age. Additionally 40% of homeless men are veterans. 50% of youth aging out of foster care and the juvenile justice systems will be homeless within six months because they are unprepared to live independently, have limited education and no social support.
Approximately 5,000 homeless youth die from assault, illness and suicide every year. 42% of homeless youth will be physically abused: 13% will be sexually assaulted. 57% of homeless kids don’t eat at least one day a month, won’t you please sponsor or donate to Deskan.
Nationwide, two factors have contributed to the increase in homelessness over the past several years: an increase in poverty and a decrease in the availability of affordable housing units.
Women and children make up the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population, with half of the women and children living in the State of Georgia.
We provide FREE lunch to those who are hungry every 1st Saturday of the month. We need your help by volunteering, donating funds, or donating groceries to help serve the needy.
This monthly feeding program is extended to the Parks where the homeless find a home. It is also extended to families in need of food and clothing, who can reach us to partake of their need from our Food Pantry and Clothing Rack in Stone Mountain, GA.
Contact us today and help contribute to the Deskan Institute Homelessness outreach programs!