The Florida Department of Children and Families reports an estimated 60,000 persons who are homeless and living on the streets or in shelters in our state. This number does not account for the persons sharing living accommodations with family or friends. The homeless population in Florida has increased by over 30% in the past three years alone.

   This is not a case of people who are constantly trying to “scam the system” and live off the state. These people have been affected by recent economic challenges, and are forced to struggle to find their way in a world where steady employment and affordable housing opportunities are scarce. This situation is not going to get better on its own. One person can make a difference in the lives of countless others by getting involved with non-profit organizations in the community.

   So this is not a case of people who are constantly trying to “scam the system” and live off the state Metropolitan Ministries is one of these organizations. They have helped over half a million families since the organization’s inception in 1972. A scant 6% of the funding required to run operations comes from government grants. The remaining 94% is a result of monetary donations. Only 5% of the institution’s budget goes towards administration funding, 11% to program development and the remaining 84% goes directly to operating the programs and services they offer.

   The programs and services include: temporary housing, nutrition, health care, education programs, substance abuse recovery programs, vocational training and permanent affordable housing to name a few. Metropolitan Ministries helps people to obtain the tools they need to get off the streets and back on their feet. It does not take much to help them. Each meal they are providing for this Thanksgiving will cost $1.76.

   However, they are anticipating serving over 500,000 meals this season. Most of the community is struggling in one way or another, but even donating time to help an organization such as this makes a huge difference. Metropolitan Ministries saves $2.5 million a year in labor costs because of volunteers. Habitat for Humanity in Hillsborough County is a similar organization. They provide affordable housing to persons who would not otherwise be able to afford a home.

   This is not given free of cost. If an applicant is approved, they will end up with a home for which they are responsible for the mortgage, which is calculated at cost with no interest. The cost of the house excludes volunteer hours and donated materials. The applicant must be capable of maintaining legal employment that will allow them to pay for their house. The applicant is also required to put in 500 “sweat equity” hours before receiving his or her house. This includes building other Habitat houses, as well as their own. Habitat for Humanity in Hillsborough County accepts monetary donations but is also in need of new or gently used appliances and other items to help furnish the homes.

   They also welcome both skilled and unskilled volunteers to help build the homes. Ultimately, the homeless issue is one that affects the whole state and the burden should not be solely that of non-profit organizations. Although it is not always evident, the matter has not escaped the attention of the government. As it is, Florida spends over $300 million a year in providing shelter for the homeless in our state. Homelessness often leads to other problems such as mental and physical health decline and unemployment. The cost to the state increases as it tries to deal with these consequences.

   The legislature is working to decrease the growing number of homeless persons in the state, but it has proven to be a long and arduous task. There is no denying that there are a few individuals that choose to live off the hard work of others, but there are those who wish to be self-sufficient once more and cease to be an emotional and financial burden to those around them. In the latter’s case, there is something that individuals can do to speed up the process while the government comes up with a solution.