Article Summary –
A report on the economic impacts of homelessness in Missoula, Montana claims that the cost of homelessness is highest for those experiencing it and the people and communities closest to them. The report cites poor health, elevated risk of violence, and increased interaction with the criminal justice system among the significant costs borne by unhoused people. The study also estimates that communities spend an average of $7,000 to $10,000 per unhoused person per year on government and healthcare services, with a small proportion of the population responsible for a large percentage of these costs.
Addressing Economic Impacts of Homelessness in Missoula
Supporters of a new report on the economic consequences of homelessness in Missoula hope it will stimulate informed dialogues aimed at tackling the growing issue.
Understanding the Effects of Homelessness in the Community
The report provides insights into the effects of homelessness on individuals and the community, emphasizing the difficulty of managing and reducing homelessness. These issues are currently being addressed by Missoula’s urban camping working group, which is focusing on reducing the impacts on the unsheltered population and residents after last year’s sharp increase in homelessness.
Missoula Economic Partnership’s Approach to Homelessness
Missoula Economic Partnership commissioned the study from ABMJ Consulting to provide a balanced view of the issue to guide community responses. The findings highlight the importance of considering both the concerns of unhoused people and the impacts on businesses and the community. The partnership has already received feedback from individuals who gained a better understanding of homelessness after reading the report.
Impacts of Homelessness on Health and Crime
The report states that the costs of homelessness are disproportionately borne by the homeless and those closest to them. Homeless people bear significant costs, including poor health, mental health issues, increased risk of violence, and barriers to healthcare and housing. The report also suggests a link between homelessness and crime, with other homeless people often being victims of homeless-related crime.
The Cost of Homelessness to Government and Healthcare System
Government and healthcare spending on homelessness typically averages between $7,000 and $10,000 per homeless person per year. The report emphasizes that a small percentage of the population is responsible for a large portion of the costs. In Missoula, city and county budgets include nearly $4 million for various homeless programs.
Addressing the Root Causes of Homelessness
People typically become homeless when their income is insufficient to afford housing. The risk of homelessness is also influenced by the availability of resources from safety nets and individual circumstances like health problems and social networks. The report suggests that communities can reduce homelessness by improving housing affordability, enhancing safety net efficiency, and creating healthier, more capable individuals.
Managing Homelessness While Seeking Reductions
Reducing homelessness requires managing the issue and navigating difficult conversations about resource allocation and who bears the cost. The report provides useful insights for Missoula’s urban camping working group as it continues its discussions. The Missoula Economic Partnership hopes that the report can benefit communities across the state and stimulate constructive dialogue.
—
Read More Montana News
