As the holiday season invites us to come together for cheer and celebration, it’s also a time of reflection on the privileges and blessings we often take for granted. One such privilege is having a roof over our heads and a place to call home—it’s a basic necessity not everyone in our community can enjoy. December 3rd marks National Roof Over Your Head Day, a day dedicated to appreciating the gift of warmth, safety, and shelter and acknowledging the stark reality of homelessness.
While Idaho is known for being a beautiful state with a mountainous backdrop and welcoming community, homelessness still exists nonetheless. As we celebrate the season of giving and gratitude, it’s crucial to shine a light on the issue and consider how we can make a difference in the lives of those without a place to call home.
The State of Homelessness in Idaho
According to recent reports, Idaho’s homeless population has faced unique challenges, from the drastic increase in the cost of housing to the harsh winters. In the face of these challenges, the state has rallied through non-profit organizations, local government initiatives, and community efforts to provide support and resources to those experiencing homelessness. In 2023, on a single night in Ada County alone, almost 700 people were literally without a home. 217 of which were 55 and older, 43 were children, and 109 were veterans.
Taking Action on National Roof Over Your Head Day
National Roof Over Your Head Day serves as an imploring reminder that having a safe and stable place to live is a fundamental human right. On this day, and throughout the holiday season, there are several meaningful ways we can contribute to addressing homelessness in Idaho:
- Support Local Shelters: Many shelters and organizations work tirelessly to provide shelter and support services to the homeless population. Consider making a donation of funds, clothing, blankets, or essential supplies to these organizations.
- Volunteer Your Time: Give the gift of your time by volunteering at local shelters, food banks, or community outreach programs. Your presence and assistance can make a significant impact.
- Raise Awareness: Use your voice and platforms to raise awareness about homelessness in Idaho. Educate your friends and family about the challenges those without homes face and advocate for compassionate solutions.
- Support Affordable Housing Initiatives: Advocate for affordable housing initiatives and policies that aim to increase access to affordable homes for low-income individuals and families.
- Show Kindness: Sometimes, a simple act of kindness, such as offering a warm meal or a friendly conversation, can brighten someone’s day and provide a sense of hope.
Donate to local organizations like CATCH.
Together We Give Foundation & CATCH of Idaho Taking Action
Together We Give is a nonprofit charitable foundation founded and funded by the Mike Brown Group with Silvercreek Realty Group and their clients through a combined portion of every closed transaction. The Mike Brown Group absorbs all of the admin costs of the foundation, allowing 100% of the funds raised to be granted to charity.
CATCH of Idaho is a nonprofit that aims to connect people with housing. They are a people-first organization. They are stewards of relationships and resources working towards creating a safe, healthy, connected community. By embracing Housing First practices, their goal is to develop a public understanding of homelessness, hoping to make it rare, brief, and non-recurring.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
On Thursday, November 30th, the Mike Brown Group, the Together We Give board members, and the CATCH staff came together to celebrate another year of working hard to resolve homelessness in Idaho.
This is the third year Mike Brown, owner and team leader of MBG and co-founder of Together We Give, has had the honor of presenting a check to CATCH on behalf of TWG and their like-minded team of agents, staff and clients of the Mike Brown Group in the amount of $50,000. In the three years Together We Give has partnered with CATCH, $210,000 has been donated toward the effort to resolve homelessness.
Working Toward a Better Future
On National Roof Over Your Head Day, we are reminded of the privileges we enjoy and our benevolent responsibility to support those less fortunate. In Idaho, as in many places across the country, homelessness is a pressing issue that requires our collective efforts and compassion.
As we celebrate the holidays and the comforts of our own homes, let us extend our hearts and hands to those in need. By working together and advocating for solutions, we can strive to make homelessness a rare and temporary occurrence, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to have a roof over their head, not just on this day but every day.We hope the spirit of giving is contagious. As you consider your end-of-year giving and organizations you can serve here in the Treasure Valley, please consider joining us in the marathon to resolve homelessness by donating to CATCH.
