October 2023 Updates
On World Homelessness Day, we wanted to share with you the sobering realities faced by our fellow Rhode Islanders and the tireless efforts of Foster Forward to make a difference.
Financial generosity can help further the Foster Forward’s mission to positively impact the lives of foster youth, including those impacted by homelessness. Consider donating today.
What is World Homelessness Day? World Homelessness Day, observed annually on October 10th, serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing crisis of homelessness and inadequate housing that plagues communities worldwide.
How many Rhode Islanders are impacted? In 2023, Rhode Island's Point in Time Count revealed that 1,810 individuals were experiencing homelessness. Shockingly, 65% of these people had recently found themselves homeless, highlighting the urgency of our mission. Furthermore, an alarming increase in homeless children was reported, totaling 595 individuals, including one youth between the ages of 13 and 17 and 81 young adults aged 18 to 24.
Why is this crisis worsening? The statistics are grim: Rhode Island requires an annual household income of $57,779 to afford a two-bedroom rental home at HUD's Fair Market Rent. Yet, there is a shortage of 24,049 affordable rental homes, resulting in 60% of renter households spending over half their monthly income on housing.
Why is Foster Forward's Your Way Home Program so important? Foster Forward recognizes the dire need to support youth leaving foster care, as 1 in 4 will become homeless within four years of aging out. Nationally, 50% of the homeless population has spent time in foster care. Foster Forward operates the state's only Youth Drop-In Center, offering vital services like showers and laundry facilities. We also run a HUD-funded Rapid Rehousing Program for 18-24-year-olds experiencing homelessness. Moreover, we assist youth in accessing federal housing vouchers that provide 36 months of subsidized rental assistance and supportive services. In our unwavering commitment to these vulnerable young adults, Foster Forward now owns three properties with 9 units and aims to scale up to 100 units by 2026 through partnerships with Community Development Corporations.
How can you get involved? Your support can change lives:
If you're a landlord with an available unit, consider renting to a client in our Your Way Home Program.
Join our Second Home Loyalty Program by setting up a recurring donation.
Donate gently used furniture and household wares to our Community Storefront.
With your continued support, we can illuminate the path to a brighter, more secure future for Rhode Island's youth facing homelessness. Together, we can make a difference, one life at a time.
Thank you for being a beacon of hope in these challenging times.