Unseen Lives: The Reality of Hidden Homelessness
Little did I realize how this time living in a van would absolutely change my life.
Ever thought about the people who don't show up in the official homeless counts? In this eye-opening episode of 'Diary of an Overcomer', Carol and Jen dive into the world of hidden homelessness. These are folks who live in cars, hop from couch to couch, and generally stay under the radar. They're not part of the over half a million homeless people officially counted in the US, but their struggles are just as real.
Carol and Jen break down what hidden homelessness means and why it's so important to get accurate counts. Without these numbers, it's tough for advocates and researchers to grasp the full scope of the problem. Jen even shares her own experience of living in her sister's van once a week for three years to raise awareness and funds for Shepherd's Gate. Spoiler alert: it was nothing like urban camping.
The episode also touches on how COVID-19 has made things even harder for the hidden homeless, making stable housing and essential services even more elusive. Carol and Jen provide practical tips on how you can make a difference, whether it's through volunteering or offering support in other ways. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer picture of the hidden homeless population and understand why they deserve more attention and resources.
Tune in for a compassionate, informative look at an often-overlooked issue.