‘We’re homeless again’, Jacksonville mom unable to find affordable housing; she’s not alone

Jacksonville Mom and Daughters Struggle to Find Affordable Housing

Jamilya Henderson, a mother from Jacksonville, is facing a difficult situation as she searches for affordable housing for herself and her two teenage daughters. She is not alone in her struggle. Henderson fights back tears as she shares her current circumstances.

Challenges of Finding Affordable Housing

Henderson describes the situation as draining and explains how she tries to stay positive for her girls every day. However, the difficulty of finding affordable housing is taking a toll on her. Currently, they are sleeping on a relative’s couch, taking turns in three-hour intervals.

Getting enough rest is a challenge, especially for her daughters who attend school. They go to school to escape their living situation, but often feel sleepy or sleep-deprived. Despite their struggles, they keep their homelessness a secret from their friends.

The Hidden Homeless Issue

According to the Florida Department of Education, more than 3,000 students in Duval County find themselves in similar situations. Some live in shelters, hotels, cars, on the streets, or with relatives. These families are considered the hidden homeless because they try to avoid living on the streets for the safety of their children.

Family Promise of Jacksonville, a nonprofit organization, provides temporary shelter for families like Henderson’s. However, their shelter is currently full, and they have a waiting list of nearly 20 families. The lack of affordable housing poses a significant challenge for these families, especially those with four or more children.

Financial Struggles

Henderson receives around $900 per month in disability payments and is unable to work. After paying essential bills such as cell phone, insurance, and storage fees, she is left with only $200 to cover all other expenses.

She had previously received rental assistance through a yearlong program, but since it ended, she has been unable to find a permanent home. Henderson is currently on the waiting list for public housing, but the wait time is estimated to be three to five years.

The Need for Affordable Housing Solutions

Beth Mixson from Family Promise of Jacksonville emphasizes that the lack of affordable housing is not just a local issue but a problem faced across Florida and the United States. Both short-term and long-term solutions are needed to address this crisis.

Seeking Help and Proposed Solutions

Henderson is hoping that someone will see her story and offer assistance in finding a place to live. The City of Jacksonville has recognized the affordable housing crisis and proposed spending approximately $8 million to address homelessness and the lack of affordable housing. The proposal is awaiting approval from the Jacksonville City Council.

In conclusion, Jamilya Henderson and her daughters represent just one example of the many families struggling to find affordable housing in Jacksonville. Their story highlights the urgent need to work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which aims to ensure access to safe, affordable, and sustainable housing for all.

Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.