Here they go again asking for a hand out. Why don't they just get a job and work like everyone else! It's not my problem! I made it by working hard, and so can anyone. I really don't want to think about it, just in case I might be wrong!
There are 60,168 men, women and children in Florida who are homeless.
There are 4,392 men, women and children in Miami who are homeless.
How does Florida compare to other states?
Florida has the 3rd largest homeless population in the nation; just 2,000 less than New York state.
The homeless are humans beings just like you and I, and if you think this could never happen to you, guess again. Over the years I've met homeless people from all walks of life, teachers, city workers, and even a judge.
Florida's Homeless Population
vs. Shelter Capacity
Homeless People Florida's Shelter Capacity
60,168
32,004
28,164 Florida residents have no place to go
for safe shelter on any given night.
Affordable Housing is the number one unmet need in the state of Florida
that leads to homelessness.
Affordable Housing By the Numbers To afford a two bedroom apartment at fair market rental rates in Florida, a household needs an
hourly wage of $16.35 or an annual income of $34,007.
More than one million extremely-low income households in Florida earn $16,333 or less, which
is 30 percent of Florida’s area median income of $54,445. (2000 US Census; American Community Survey, 2007) • A person working full time at minimum wage ($6.79) in Florida earns about $14,100 annually - less than
30 percent of Florida’s median income.
• A disabled person who depends on SSI (receiving $603 per month) can afford rent of no more than
$181 month for rent, while the fair market rate for a one bedroom apartment is $715.
(2006 Out of Reach Report, NLIHC) learn more
How many homeless people are employed?
39% are employed
18% are employed full time
If you think that's pretty low, think again! Imagine trying to keep a job without a place to shower, without any sleep, without a phone to call, without a clean set of laundry to wear, without a dime to get there. Think again and you'll realize that 39% is a miracle!
How long are people homeless?
36% are homeless for 3 months or less
25% are homeless for more than 3 months, less than 12 months
39% are homeless for more than a year
How many times do people experience homelessness?
41% are experiencing homelessness for the first time
32% have been homeless 2 or 3 times
26% have been homeless 4 or more times
