Homelessness is a major issue in Honolulu, Hawaii, and it is essential to understand the causes of this problem in order to develop effective policy solutions. Poverty, addiction, and unaddressed mental illness are the primary drivers of homelessness in the area. The costs to the state and society are immense, and it is important to take action. The Justice Outreach Center (JOC) provides injury and mental health care, including long-acting antipsychotic medications, and works with law enforcement, social service agencies, and housing coordinators to help homeless people receive health care, housing, and other programs and resources.
Designated areas in Ohana provide places of refuge for the homeless, ending raids and reducing the pressure of homeless people congregating in public parks and beaches. Hawaii has one of the highest rates of homelessness per capita in the country, with more than 10,000 people chronically homeless at any given time. Lifting zones have been installed around the state's inflatable and non-permanent tents in needy areas. These zones allow homeless people to live for up to 90 days while receiving medical care, social services, and support during the transition to a permanent shelter.
Law enforcement can monitor daily activities and provide security. Kaua'i and Hawaii Counties saw a 5% increase in the number of homeless people, while Maui County saw a 6% decline. Chronic homelessness is defined as “having been homeless for at least a year, or repeatedly, while struggling with a disabling condition such as serious mental illness, substance use disorder, or physical disability”. Family Services & for Maui youth works to create support and guidance for those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness so that they can achieve positive change in their social, behavioral, academic, health and family lives. It is important to recognize that everyone has a role to play in preventing conditions that lead to homelessness.
Chronic homelessness in Hawaii is a challenge that affects us all as community members, taxpayers, and human beings. The facts are beginning to show the magnitude of the human and social costs of chronic homelessness in Hawaii. In order to effectively address this issue, it is essential to understand the causes of homelessness in Honolulu. Poverty is one of the main drivers of homelessness in Hawaii. People who are unable to find employment or who do not have access to adequate housing are more likely to become homeless.
Additionally, addiction and unaddressed mental illness can lead to homelessness as well. The Justice Outreach Center (JOC) provides injury and mental health care for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. This includes long-acting antipsychotic medications as well as assistance with finding housing and other resources. Designated areas in Ohana provide places of refuge for the homeless, ending raids and reducing the pressure of homeless people congregating in public parks and beaches. Lifting zones have also been installed around the state's inflatable and non-permanent tents in needy areas.
Law enforcement can monitor daily activities and provide security. It is important to recognize that everyone has a role to play in preventing conditions that lead to homelessness. We must reach out to all families and residents to understand their role in preventing conditions that lead to homelessness. Chronic homelessness in Hawaii is a challenge that affects us all as community members, taxpayers, and human beings.
