The Unseen Realities of Homeless Families, Elderly, and Drug Addicts; Hope and Change Starts with YOU

 

The Unseen Realities of Homeless Families, Elderly, and Drug Addicts: Hope and Change Starts with You  

Homelessness is a multifaceted crisis affecting diverse groups, including families with children, the elderly, and individuals struggling with substance abuse. Recent data from 2024-2025 sheds light on the unique challenges faced by these vulnerable populations. 

Rising Numbers and Stark Statistics 

Families with Children: In 2024, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reported a 39% increase in homelessness among families with children, totaling 73,389 families. Nearly 150,000 children experienced homelessness on a single night in 2024, reflecting a 33% increase from the previous year. 

Elderly Individuals: The 2024 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report revealed an 18.1% increase in overall homelessness, with elderly people being disproportionately affected. Factors such as fixed incomes, rising healthcare costs, and lack of affordable housing contribute to the growing number of elderly homeless individuals. 

Drug Addicts: Substance abuse is a significant factor in homelessness. In 2024, it was estimated that 38% of homeless individuals struggled with substance use disorders. In Arizona alone, over 13,000 people experienced homelessness on any given night in 2023, with a high prevalence of substance use disorders among this population. 

The Role of Mental Illness 

Mental illnesses that go undiagnosed and untreated can lead to self-medication with street drugs, exacerbating the homelessness crisis. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reported that 50% of individuals with severe mental health disorders are affected by substance use. Additionally, 37% of alcohol users and 53% of drug abusers also have at least one serious mental illness. Common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD often drive individuals to self-medicate, leading to substance use disorders. 

The Human Impact 

Families with Children: Homeless children often face disruptions in their education, leading to long-term academic and social challenges. They are also at higher risk for health issues, including malnutrition and mental health disorders. 

Elderly Individuals: Homelessness can exacerbate existing health problems for elderly individuals and lead to increased mortality rates due to exposure to harsh weather conditions and lack of access to medical care. 

Drug Addicts: Homeless individuals with substance use disorders face additional challenges, including higher rates of overdose and health complications. In Arizona, opioid overdose deaths among the homeless population have been a significant concern, with a 42% increase in deaths reported in Maricopa County in 2022. 

Drug Overdose Death Rates in 2025 

Recent data from the CDC shows a nearly 24% decline in drug overdose deaths in the United States for the 12 months ending in September 2024, compared to the previous year. This decline is attributed to several factors, including widespread distribution of naloxone, better access to evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders, and improved public health interventions. However, with the widespread distribution of naloxone, many addicts are treating themselves and each other, leading to unreported overdose incidents. Consequently, the actual overdose numbers may be higher than reported. 

Invisible Struggles 

One of the most significant challenges in addressing homelessness among these groups is the invisibility of their struggles. Many homeless families live in less visible situations, such as staying temporarily with friends or in motels, making it difficult to capture accurate data and provide necessary support. Similarly, elderly homeless individuals often avoid shelters due to safety concerns or lack of accessibility, further complicating efforts to assist them. Homeless individuals with substance use disorders may also avoid shelters due to stigma or fear of legal repercussions. 

Shelter Beds and Affordable Housing in Arizona 

The demand for shelter beds and affordable housing in Arizona far exceeds the available supply. As of early 2025, the waiting list for shelter beds in Arizona is extensive, with many shelters reporting long waiting times. For example, Maricopa County has approximately 2,118 emergency shelter beds, but the demand is much higher.  

Similarly, the waiting lists for affordable housing are lengthy. The Arizona Department of Housing’s database shows that many public housing and Section 8 waiting lists are either closed or have long wait times. The actual number of available affordable housing units is insufficient to meet the demand, with many low-income families waiting months or even years for a unit to become available. 

Solutions and Hope 

Despite the grim statistics, there are promising solutions on the horizon. Evidence-based strategies, such as expanding affordable housing and providing targeted support services, have shown success in reducing homelessness. For instance, veteran homelessness has decreased significantly due to focused federal efforts. Replicating these strategies for families, the elderly, and individuals with substance use disorders could lead to similar positive outcomes. 

How Can I Help? 

Communities play a crucial role in supporting homeless families with children, the elderly, and individuals struggling with substance abuse. Here are several impactful ways you can help: 

  1. Donate
  • Financial contributions: Donate to local shelters, food banks, and organizations that provide services to homeless populations. You can donate to Arizona’s Family to the Homeless. 
  • In-kind donations: Provide items such as clothing, hygiene products, blankets, and non-perishable food to shelters and outreach programs. 
  1. Volunteer
  • Shelters and food banks: Volunteer your time at local shelters and food banks to help distribute meals and provide support.
  • Mentorship programs: Offer your skills and time to mentor homeless individuals, help them with job searches, resume writing, and life skills. 
  • Homeless Outreach Team: Join the AZFH Outreach Team to provide direct support to homeless individuals in the community. 
  • Become a Board Member: Email us for board member opportunities: [email protected]
  1. Advocate
  • Raise awareness: Use social media and community events to educate others about homelessness and the specific needs of families, the elderly, and those with substance use disorders. 
  • Policy changes: Advocate for policies that address the root causes of homelessness, such as affordable housing, healthcare access, and mental health services. 
  1. Support Local Initiatives
  • Community outreach: Participate in or organize outreach programs that provide direct support to homeless individuals, such as mobile clinics or street outreach teams. 
  • Fundraising events: Host or support fundraising events to raise money for local homelessness initiatives. 
  1. Partner with Organizations
  • Nonprofits: Collaborate with local nonprofits that focus on homelessness, such as Arizona’s Family to the Homeless. 
  • Faith-based groups: Engage with faith-based organizations that often provide shelter and support services. 
  1. Educate Yourself and Others
  • Learn about homelessness: Educate yourself on the causes and effects of homelessness to better understand how you can help. 
  • Share information: Spread knowledge about effective solutions and the importance of addressing homelessness in your community. 
  1. Provide Employment Opportunities
  • Job training programs: Support or create job training programs that help homeless individuals gain skills and find employment. 
  • Hire homeless individuals: If you own a business, consider hiring homeless individuals and providing them with the support they need to succeed. 
  1. Offer Housing Solutions
  • Temporary housing: If you have the means, offer temporary housing to homeless families or elderly individuals. 
  • Support housing projects: Advocate for and support the development of affordable housing projects in your community. 
  1. Donate Unused Land for Development
  • Transform idle assets: Donating unused or vacant land to nonprofits can help develop affordable housing projects, providing a stable living environment for low-income families. 
  • Tax benefits: Donating land can offer significant tax deductions and help avoid capital gains tax. 
  1. Support affordable housing

AZFH Angel Springs Village Initiative 

At Arizona’s Family to the Homeless, we aim to create change in our communities with our initiative AZFH Angel Springs Village. This project plans to develop an affordable housing community with a food pantry, providing essential resources to those who need it most. 

Benefits of Affordable Housing with Food Pantry: 

  • Stable Housing: Affordable housing reduces the financial burden on low-income families, allowing them to allocate resources towards other necessities like food and healthcare. 
  • Food Security: The integrated food pantry will ensure residents have access to nutritious food, reducing food insecurity and promoting overall well-being. 
  • Community Support: By providing both housing and food, AZFH Angel Springs Village will create a supportive community environment where residents can thrive and work towards stability. 

How to Get Involved with AZFH 

To get involved with AZFH, you can: 

  • Advocate: Raise awareness and advocate for policy changes that address homelessness. 

By partnering with Arizona’s Family to the Homeless and collaborating with their non-profit initiatives, you can make a significant difference in the lives of homeless families, elderly individuals, and those struggling with substance abuse. Every effort counts and contributes to creating a more compassionate and supportive community. 

Conclusion 

The unseen realities of homeless families with children, the elderly, and drug addicts highlight the urgent need for comprehensive and compassionate solutions. By understanding the unique challenges faced by these vulnerable populations and implementing targeted interventions, we can work towards a future where everyone has access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. 

Footnotes 

: HUD Releases 2024 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report. HUD : Homelessness Trends – Report Maricopa County Regional. Maricopa County Regional Report : Homelessness Data Dashboard, 2024-2025. GLC Impact : Housing Waiting Lists in Arizona – Updated April 4, 2025. Affordable Housing Online : Substance Abuse and Homelessness: Statistics and Rehab Treatment. Substance Abuse Statistics : Current Addiction Statistics: 2025 Data on Substance Abuse & Trends. Addiction Statistics : Search For Affordable Housing In Arizona. HousingSearch.AZ.gov : Central Arizona Shelter Services. CASS : Vista Colina. WomenShelters.org : Family Housing Hub. Family Housing Hub : Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents. AZAFAP : Arizona Shelter List. ShelterList.com : Maricopa County AZ Homeless Shelter Directory Homeless Statistics and … Homeless Shelter Directory : Homeless Services – Arizona Department of Economic Security. DES : Flagstaff Shelter Services Inc. Flagstaff Shelter Services : All Public Housing Waiting Lists in Arizona – Updated March 31, 2025. Affordable Housing Online : Arizona Homeless Shelters. Homeless Shelter Directory : Phoenix Opens New 280-Bed Shelter Ahead of Summer Heat. Phoenix Shelter