State Senator Saud Anwar drew attention to the growing homelessness crisis in Connecticut by spending a night outdoors in freezing temperatures. This event, held on March 2024, aimed to raise awareness of the state’s pressing need for increased support and resources for homeless individuals, including those like Debra Keller, who have faced significant hardships.
Keller’s experience reflects the stark reality many face. At 70 years old, she became homeless in 2021 after her mother’s passing and the subsequent foreclosure on their family home. She described her time in shelters in Hartford as traumatic, recounting violent incidents and the uncertainty of each day. “It was frightening,” Keller stated, highlighting the emotional toll of living without a stable home.
The senator’s overnight vigil was a collaborative effort with the nonprofit Hartford Bags of Love, which focuses on providing support for those in need. During the event, Anwar noted that Connecticut’s most recent point-in-time count indicated a nearly 10% increase in homelessness, with approximately 3,735 individuals currently affected. This includes a troubling number of children and students identified as homeless.
Anwar emphasized the systemic issues contributing to homelessness, stating, “Homelessness is a symptom of failed policies.” He pointed to the lack of affordable housing, insufficient safety nets for those with mental health or substance abuse challenges, and the need for supportive spaces for vulnerable populations, particularly victims of domestic violence and LGBTQ youth.
The senator recalled a particularly harrowing night during a previous vigil when he struggled to stay warm in 28-degree weather. “You sort of become numb and you are in severe pain in your legs,” he reflected. This year’s experience was similarly challenging, as he managed only a few hours of sleep due to the cold and noise at Nevers Park in South Windsor.
Mark Cabot, co-founder of Hartford Bags of Love, participated in the vigil alongside his young daughter. He shared insights into the constant fears faced by those without homes, such as safety concerns and the struggle for adequate rest. “It is just a constant reminder why we do the work we do to help those in need,” he said, emphasizing the collaborative effort required to address the crisis.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the forthcoming special session called by Gov. Ned Lamont. The proposed legislation aims to tackle the housing shortage in Connecticut, including incentives for towns to increase housing availability. While the governor’s office has outlined plans for first-time homebuyer savings accounts and transit-oriented development, Anwar expressed concerns over the adequacy of funding in the new proposals. He advocates for an immediate allocation of an additional $4 million to assist those experiencing homelessness throughout the winter.
According to Sarah Fox, CEO of the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, the current rental crisis is pushing more individuals, particularly seniors and people with disabilities, into homelessness. “We are in the midst of an affordable housing and rental crisis in the state,” Fox stated, noting that last year alone saw 20,000 evictions. She highlighted the challenges faced by families with housing vouchers who remain unable to secure stable accommodations.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is also considering changes to the Continuum of Care Program, which currently serves around 9,000 people in Connecticut. Proposed reductions in federal funding could significantly impact housing availability, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Keller’s journey through various shelters before finally securing her own apartment underscores the need for more resources and support for the homeless. She advocates for proactive measures to escape homelessness, emphasizing that individuals must advocate for themselves in a challenging system. “You have to be in the right place at the right time and be proactive,” she remarked, urging others not to succumb to despair.
As winter approaches, the combined efforts of advocates, legislators, and community organizations remain crucial in addressing the growing crisis of homelessness in Connecticut. The need for compassionate policies and adequate funding has never been more urgent.
