Homeless for the Holidays

The holiday season may be "the most wonderful time of the year," but it can also be the most stressful. This is particularly so for those experiencing homelessness. Homelessness can be challenging any time of year, but for those of us who live in climates that have freezing winters, it can be much more so. Unfortunately, like so many other states, Massachusetts is experiencing record high numbers of families and individuals who are without permanent residence.

Overly exorbitant rental prices in the greater Boston area have left numerous people with shelters as their only recourse, but many of them are filled to capacity. Meanwhile, there are reportedly some 2,300 state-funded housing units sitting empty while more than 184,000 people wait for "affordable housing."

With real estate prices steadily climbing higher, the Department of Housing has raised the individual asset limitation for low-income housing to $80,000; which is up from $40,000 last year. So as the newly impoverished acclimate to their new financial demographic placement, the previously poor now find themselves contending for housing consideration on an ever-growing waitlist.

I apologize if this all seems a bit dark, but if you’re looking for a little light, I think you’ll find there’s no greater time than now to participate in performing a personal miracle. There are people out there having trouble making their miracle happen. I invite you to think of some small way in which to brighten their day.

For my part, I will be putting together variously-sized Cocoon Kits™ for anyone who would care to purchase them as holiday gifts for those in need.

Change is in your hand. All you need do is open, and extend it.

Here’s wishing you all a healthy and happy holiday season. ^_^