- Recent evidence confirms that homelessness among families is increasing. Requested shelters for families increased by an average of 17% between 1999 - 2000. In 2000, that percentage grew to 27%. According to the US Conference of Mayors, just one year later, in 2001, that number grew to an astonishing 52%.

    - According to America Civil Liberties Union 2004, 46% of homeless women said they had previously stayed in abusive relationships because they had nowhere else to go.

    - Eighty to ninety - two percent of homeless families are coming out of abusive relationships. 

    - The typical homeless family is one headed by a 20 year old mother of two who did not complete high school and has never worked before 

    - According to Share International, 40% of all homelessness are families.

    - Homelessness severely impacts the health and well-being of all family members. Children without a home are in fair to poor health twice as often as other children.

    - Homeless children have a higher rate of asthma, ear infections, stomach problems and speech problems (Better Homes Fund, 1999).

    - Homeless children also experience more mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and withdrawal. They are twice as likely to experience hunger, and four times as likely to have delayed development. These illnesses have potentially devastating consequences if not treated early.