Snap Shot

The population of people experiencing homelessness in the United States is determined by a point-in-time count, conducted on a given day each January. Obviously, this is not a scientific sampling and presents only a snap shot of a particular day that may or may not be indicative of the actual situation. However, the survey does say something and federal and state agencies use these numbers to determine funding allocations for their various agencies.

The most recent point-in-time count shows that, while the number of individuals who experience homelessness evidences a decrease in the state, there is actually an increase in several communities, including Youngstown. This certainly is the experience here at the Rescue Mission. While the federal government has put initiatives into action that aim to end homelessness, we have found that the numbers in the Mahoning Valley have increased. In 2008, the Mission saw and average of 60 people who sought shelter with us. In 2016, that number more than doubled to 130!

Regardless of trends, statistics and surveys, there will always be the need for the Rescue Mission. If we have learned anything in our 124 year history, we have learned that people are broken and often seek spiritual and emotional healing. Because of this, we
 bring the gospel to bear on every life and situation. And it matters little to us if we speak to 60 or to 130.