Nobody chooses to be in poverty. Homelessness is not created by one who is homeless, it is from a tragedy. Maybe not so big, but a tragedy that causes one to be very vulnerable and end up in a condition in which they did not expect to find themselves in. COVID-19 is increasing levels of these people dragged to the streets due to their jobs being lost.

A Columbia University study found that homelessness in California may increase by 20% due to the unemployment rates from this COVID-19 pandemic. This would accumulate the state’s current homeless population from 150,000 people to more than 180,000. A separate ABC7 analysis of Los Angeles data was found by using the same model, the population of homelessness could increase by 16% due to the pandemic.

Earlier this year, President Trump spoke at The World Economic Forum Annual Meeting where he said, “We’re lifting up forgotten communities, creating exciting new opportunities and helping every American find their path to the American dream.” Due to this pandemic, President Trump signed into law the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) which requires certain employers to provide employees with paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. In addition, President Trump has provided Economic Impact Payments for those who filed tax returns in 2018 and 2019 and most seniors and retirees. It sends stimulus checks to adults over 17 $1000 and eligible children under 17 are given $500.

Shirley Raines is a 52-year old woman of six kids and the founder of the nonprofit organization Beauty2TheStreetz. She has been spending her Saturdays going down to Skid Row, one of the biggest areas in Downtown, LA where homelessness is being pushed to its limits. She provides services of free meals as well as makeovers to women on the streets.

Also, The Union Rescue Mission is a Christian organization where they allow all people who face homelessness into their shelter until they find their homes by providing four comprehensive levels of service. This organization values in helping people find hope and healing for a changed life.

Shirley Raines and The Union Rescue Mission are both very great organizations to help out with this crisis of homelessness but they are not the only ones that can help. There are organizations such as The National Alliance To End Homelessness where their mission is to prevent and ultimately end homelessness in the United States. Homelessness is only increasing due to this pandemic, the unemployment rates decreasing, and more. As a community of people who are all dealing with this pandemic, we should try and do everything we can to make this increase of homelessness to be reduced. From fundraisers, organizations, and more can all help this situation.

Rachel Kim / Mark Keppel High School 9th Grade

<Rachel Kim / Mark Keppel High School 9th Grade>