What You Can Do To Help The Homeless

World Homeless Day advocates estimated there are about 100 million individuals around the world who live with no permanent roof above their heads. Every day these individuals are very easily overlooked by most people who past by them.

In the U.S., the homeless population dropped by one percent in 2009 compared to 2001, to approximately 636,017 persons living with no permanent shelter, as stated by the National Alliance to End Homelessness. Although, the miniscule decline is welcomed, the problem continues to be a serious one which calls for the involvement of both government and nonprofit programs.

There is a need to know how many people are homeless in America to be able to reduce those numbers even further. So why not think about taking action to make improvements to the lives of homeless individuals who are in need.

Listed below are just some of the things you can do to help.

Give Homeless Individuals A Voice

The video blog "Invisible People" helps to put a face on the predicament that homeless people endure in the U.S. by documenting the every day struggles that accompany homeless people living with no permanent home. Founder, Mark Horvath, who himself at one time lived on California streets, strives to utilize his storytelling platform in order to make homelessness very visible and also to motivate advocates to take some helpful action. Visit his website and see how you can help.

Aid Homeless Vets

The Department of Veteran Affairs has pledged one hundred million dollars in grants last July to charities and organizations that assist low-income veterans, along with their families across the country. The VA is making serious efforts to end all homelessness for veterans by 2015. One nonprofit that is assisting to empower veterans is called U.S. Vets. This organization helped over 3,000 veterans in one year to obtain housing and also helped more than 1,000 veterans find full-time employment. Visit their website to learn how you can get involved with U.S. veterans.

Give Comfort To Homeless Children

To provide homeless youngsters the comforts that all young kids deserve at bedtime, "Project Night Night" puts a cozy blanket, a stuffed animal and a children's book inside tote bags. Every year, these 25,000 care packages help to reduce the emotional trauma that children suffer when they are homeless. They also help to promote reading, as well as family bonding. Learn how you can get involved in Project Night Night by going to their website.

Help Feed Homeless Pets

Approximately, five to ten percent of homeless individuals have dogs or cats, that most depend on for not only companionship but for protection too. To aid these people that are desperate for food and shelter for themselves, and their pets, think about becoming involved with the organization, "Pets of the Homeless." This charity provides food and veterinary treatment to those pets in need. Learn about how you could help out or make a financial donation by visiting their website.

Get The Government Involved

The National Coalition for the Homeless offers advocacy programs and promotes public policy initiatives. Their goal is to end homelessness and protect the rights of homeless people. This organization's primary policy emphasis is its "Bring America Home Act," that will function as the federal government’s initial all-encompassing response to factors and effects of homelessness. Learn how you can get involved by going to their website.