Montana Hit’s An All Time High With Top National Ranking
As you drive around different towns in Montana you will notice they have one thing in common with each other...and I am not talking about mountains.
Almost weekly we hear about the homeless problem we have throughout Montana and according to MSN News, the number of unsheltered individuals is so high, the increase actually leads the nation.
In 2023, the number of individuals experiencing homelessness was lower than it is today. Keep in mind, there are less than 1.2 million people in the entire state.
Estimates of people in families with children experiencing homelessness in 2023, according to Huduser.gov, was nearly 500 for Montana.
The number of unaccompanied minors experiencing homelessness in Montana may not seem that high with an estimate of 183, but these are essentially children by themselves.
Between 2007 and 2023, it is reported that Montana saw a 551% increase in unsheltered individuals. Sadly, Montana was one of only four states with an increase in homeless veterans.
In 2022, over 30% of people in Montana's homeless shelters reported a mental health and/or substance use disorder. This can be extremely dangerous for shelter staff, especially considering most shelters throughout the state share that their capacity numbers are near full every night, with some having to find other placement options due to meeting capacity.
The number of seniors in Montana that are experiencing homelessness is at an all time high, with an estimated 145. The HRDC helps individuals, families, and seniors who are struggling with homelessness.
It is often a stereotype that "all homeless people are jobless". The fact of the matter is that there are people with and without homes that are jobless. Bozeman, specifically, is incredibly expensive and saving enough money for first months rent and deposit is difficult for many. To obtain enough sustainable income to afford an apartment alone is extremely difficult, especially if you are on social security, where your income is capped.
To learn more about what you can do if you are experiencing homelessness, or to help our state fight homelessness, contact The HRDC or your local advocate.
cc: MSN News, Huduser.gov
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