The funding will be available through a grant application process and a part of it is especially focused on helping veterans.
Homelessness in Hawaii
If you’re a resident in Hawaii, you already know homelessness is big problem in our state. As the most expensive state to live in with limited spaces to build affordable housing, the number of people unable to afford housing has been climbing. Unsheltered populations thus try sleeping wherever they can, often in unsanitary conditions due to the lack of resources such as places to wash and use the restroom. This lack of sanitation is harmful for everyone.
Native Hawaiians have the highest rate of homelessness
Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders have the highest rate of homelessness in the country. Out of every 10,000 people, 121 are homeless. Though they make up 19% of the population here in Hawaii, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders make up 41% of the homeless population.
Though there isn’t any guarantee that Hawaii will receive any of this funding announced by the Department of Urban and Development, the HUD Secretary says she is optimistic about the impact the Native Hawaiian Homestead Program will have on the Native Hawaiian unsheltered population. This program will finally make good on over 100-year-old promises to return Hawaii land to native families. With over $600 million dollars being invested into the program, it strives to protect Hawaii families and make sure they have stable housing.
Homelessness is a Health Crisis
Governor Green is looking at homelessness through a health crisis lens. Those without homes struggle more with disease and have fewer resources to treat it. One of the programs Governor Green hopes to fund is a recovery village of tiny houses on the Big Island. There, unsheltered people could receive health care and assistance to find permanent shelter. Other states have started similar programs and have found them to be a good transition in getting people back into permanent housing.
Bio X Hawaii Sees the Effects of Homelessness Firsthand
Our team at Bio X Hawaii sees the effects of homelessness firsthand. Often tasked with cleaning up homeless camps throughout the Islands, we work hard to stop the rampant diseases prevalent among homeless populations. By cleaning up the trash, drug paraphernalia, and body fluids such as feces, we are protecting all those involved. It is our hope that Hawaii will be granted substantial funds from the allotted $3.1 billion so our state can establish more affordable and transitional housing in addition to the Native Hawaiian Homestead Program.
Homeless Camp Cleanup
If you’re dealing with the remains of a homeless camp on your Hawaii property, Bio X Hawaii is here for you to remove all the hazards and restore safety. With your health and the health of the environment as our top priorities, we will remove all the trash, drug paraphernalia, feces, and any other present biohazards. We’ll then dispose of all the hazards while strictly adhering to all rules and regulations so your legal liability is protected and your property is made safe. Give us a call today for a free quote and consultation.
