The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA), in partnership with the Institute for Community Alliances, has recently released a comprehensive report, authored by Matt White from Housing Innovations, detailing the statewide and regional needs assessment for individuals experiencing homelessness. This analysis highlights a critical resource deficit in Iowa’s homelessness system, revealing that approximately 17,000 households are projected to face homelessness by 2025, with 20% comprising families with children. The findings indicate that current resources are insufficient to meet the growing demand, forcing many Iowans to seek unsafe alternatives for housing.
In the Two Rivers region, which encompasses Boone, Greene, Story, Hardin, and Marshall counties, the need for assistance is particularly urgent. Short-term needs refer to households that have never experienced homelessness before, with 372 singles and 49 families currently requiring immediate support to prevent them from falling into a housing crisis. In contrast, long-term needs focus on those considered chronically homeless, with ongoing assistance required for 49 singles and 8 families who face persistent housing instability. This stark reality highlights the critical need for both immediate interventions and sustainable support systems to effectively address the challenges faced by those in crisis.
The Iowa Homelessness Gap Analysis has helped debunk several myths surrounding homelessness in our state. One significant finding is that Iowa does not have a substantial migratory homeless population; rather, most individuals experiencing homelessness or housing crises have been long-time members of their communities. It’s crucial to understand that no one chooses to be homeless. When someone declines services, it often reflects a mismatch between their needs and the options offered, rather than a desire to remain on the streets. Each person’s situation comes with a unique story and distinct challenges, and for many, the prospect of re-entering society and asking for help can be intimidating. This underscores the importance of tailoring support services to meet individual needs and fostering an environment of understanding and compassion.
To optimize our homelessness response at a statewide level, an estimated additional investment of nearly $60 million annually for single adults and $17.5 million for families is required. The Two Rivers Region would require an estimated additional $6.5 million to close the gap between the current system and assessed need, significantly enhancing crisis response and rehousing resources and ultimately providing a pathway to stability for countless individuals and families.
Now is the time to take action. We must continue to raise awareness of homelessness in our community and advocate for the necessary resources to bridge these gaps. Volunteer your time, donate to local organizations, or simply share this message to help spread the word. Together, we can create a more equitable system and ensure that everyone has access to safe and stable housing.
