Homeless experiencing health risks due to Climate Change

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 Homelessness risk factors due to Climate Change 



Homeless people are particularly vulnerable to the impact that climate change due to their lack of stable housing and their lack of resources that they have access to resources. As temperature rises, homeless people face risk of any type of heat-related illnesses and deaths, especially during heatwaves. Another thing to consider is extreme weather, such as storms, floods, and hurricanes can cause them to be removed from their shelters or expose them to dangerous outdoor conditions. With climate change becoming more of an issue, the changes in weather patterns can disrupt access to essential services like food and water. 

Statistics: 
  • Homeless people are 200 times more likely to die due to heat-related causes
  • 40% increase in hospitalizations for depression and mania during extreme heat
  • In 2022 a record of 63% increase of deaths 
Resources: 

Rose City Resource Guide by Street Roots- homeless services resource 

Emergency Shelter Programs- Shelter and access center Programs for homeless system of care 

Climate change makes life harder for homeless people by exposing them to more extreme weather and disrupting essential resources. We need to provide immediate help like shelters and healthcare due to the amount of heat-wave related deaths/ illnesses. While focusing on long-term solutions like affordable housing, with this we can better support homeless individuals and make our communities more resilient against climate changes. 


References: 



 

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