Homeless in Champaign

The Situation

Like many cities in the United States, homelessness in Champaign-Urbana has been a chronic problem for a long time. Recently, however, the area has experienced a marked increase in the number of homeless residents. One significant contributor to this was the economic downturn of 2008, which negatively affected many households. The subsequent rise in unemployment and foreclosures has left many individuals unable to a afford maintaining a private residence.

Another factor that has contributed to the rise in homelessness is the recent decrease in affordable housing in the area. Since 2009, low income housing projects have faced closure, leaving several families on the streets. One in particular, the Gateway Studios, which operated on Neil Street, was forced to close when it was discovered that the owner had failed to pay property taxes, forcing residents to seek out other options on short notice.

A 20% increase in homeless individuals in 2010 illustrated the shortcomings of the already overextended shelters and outreach organizations. The current shelters homeless outreach institutions in Champaign are able to serve 300 people. While this service is certainly commendable given the available resources, this meant that during winter at least 277 people had to seek out other options for shelter from the elements.