Homelessness in Broward County is a persistent issue, often misunderstood or judged by many. While one may think of homelessness as a result of poor choices or substance abuse, it remains far more complex. Things like rising housing costs, job loss, medical emergencies, mental health challenges and domestic violence contribute to this growing crisis. It is important to understand the realities that lead people into homelessness and to help address these issues and also help in any way possible.
Homelessness affects a wide range of people, including families, the youth, veterans and seniors, not just individuals living on the streets. Many families also face “hidden homelessness,” where they live in cars or motels, making them less visible to the public but no less important and in need of help. There are also many young individuals in the foster care system who are thrown into the streets as soon as they turn 18 and become homeless in the blink of an eye. Organizations like FLITE Center exist to support these teenagers who no longer have a home and are enduring a hard time in their life with high school and suddenly having to support themselves financially.
A common misconception is that giving money or food directly to individuals on the streets is the best way to help. While these gestures have a good intention behind them, they don’t address the root causes of homelessness, such as access to housing, mental health services or employment opportunities. Supporting long-term solutions and comprehensive services is more effective, and many students have taken steps toward achieving these goals of helping the homeless.
Various students around school help serve food in shelters, or organize drives to donate necessities, clothing and other items for those in need. Junior Rachel Kessler, for example, has been involved in helping the homeless around Broward County with her project alongside seven other high school students for Youth Leadership Broward. The nonprofit organization the group founded, Hearts 4 Humanity, has donated thousands of items for different shelters.
“Being a part of this project has really impacted me, and opened my eyes to the true issues tied to homelessness within our community. I’m grateful to have been able to impact as many people as we have and hopefully encourage others to do the same,” Kessler said.
While the efforts of these students are large, any small act of kindness makes a difference for the community. Here are some ways to help:
- Volunteer at a shelter: Whether you volunteer to organize and sort through the clothes that have been donated, to serve food or clean some of the areas, it can make a great difference. You can volunteer in places such as Broward Outreach Center 2056 Scott Street, Hollywood, FL 33020, The Salvation Army Broward 1445 West Broward Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, The Homeless Voice 4700 Southwest 51st Street 208, Davie, Florida 33314, Broward Partnership 920 Northwest 7th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 and many others.
- Donations: You can donate necessities, blankets, canned foods, clothes you no longer need, hygiene products and more. Here are some of the organizations that take on donations: Feeding South Florida 2501 Southwest 32 Terrace, Pembroke Park, FL 33023 and Covenant House Florida 733 Breakers Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304.
- Advocate for policy change: It’s key to address the true issues tied to homelessness in order to improve access to affordable housing, healthcare and mental health in the community. By contacting local officials, joining advocacy groups or supporting legislation you can help create long term solutions. Organizations such as Florida Coalition for the Homeless 2868 Mahan Dr # 1, Tallahassee, FL 32308 advocate to improve these conditions.
- Raise awareness: Educating others and yourself about the constant issues homeless people face and how to help is crucial. Spreading awareness about the realities of homelessness can help combat these stigmas tied to the problem and encourage others to get involved.
By working together we can help address the root causes of homelessness and help fight it to ensure everyone in Broward County has the opportunity to live the life they deserve, and hopefully advocate for change in a larger community over time.
The Student Government Association and Hearts 4 Humanity partner to make a supply drive to help Broward Partnership. They raised over 3,300 items including toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant and other necessities. (Photos/Rachel Kessler)
