Forum to Combat Homelessness in Montgomery

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – Homelessness has increased across the United States, including in Alabama.

Around 3,300 Alabam residents are considered homeless.

A group of nonprofit leaders in the River Region discussed the state of homelessness Thursday evening at the Rosa Parks Museum in Troy, hoping to educate and inspire people to end chronic homelessness.

The annual homeless count in January 2024 counted nearly 500 people, and nonprofits say each of them shows up on their doorstep with unique needs that food alone can't solve.

“I think that’s something that people don’t realize. They don’t realize all the aspects that go into the work we do every day,” said Tara Davis, executive director of Friendship Mission.

While food and monetary donations can be helpful for individuals, panelists agreed that affordable housing could improve the lives of many people who are without money.

“Our homeless neighbors in need may have two or three part-time jobs,” said Patrick Aitken, director of the Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless. “There’s no way you can save enough money to cover those upfront costs.”

Ken Austin, executive director of Mercy House and the MAP Center, said to effectively end homelessness, people need to change their attitudes toward those living homeless.

“Maybe you find yourself in this situation. Maybe I’ll find myself there one day, but we serve people in whatever situation they come up in,” Austin said.

Nonprofits encourage the River Region to donate to agencies to help them continue their services.

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