Team Tools for the Homeless had a great first week! We have identified two potential areas that we want to focus our research:
- Identification theft among homeless individuals
- Access to proper hygiene while homeless
As a team, we have begun our research, paying close attention to some of the major implications of each problem space.
Identification Theft…
… makes it more difficult for homeless individuals to check-in to shelters
… makes it more difficult for homeless individuals to apply for jobs
… makes it more difficult for homeless individuals to receive public aid such as food stamps
… leaves homeless individuals feeling unsafe
… robs homeless individuals of their personal information
Not having access to proper hygiene…
… results in major health issues
… is a biohazard for those who live around you
… prevents homeless individuals from putting their best foot forward when applying for jobs
… is more difficult for women than men because it is harder for women to use the bathroom anywhere
Both of these problem statements contribute to some jarring slap-stats, revealing the need to address issues around homelessness:
- 85% of homeless people have chronic health conditions
- > 50% of homeless people have a mental health condition
- 54 percent of homeless people without photo ID are denied access to shelters or housing services
We are very excited to visit Star of Hope, a shelter we have contacted to visit and potentially partner with. By observing and learning of their needs, we hope to apply one of these problem spaces to a project that would be meaningful in our Houston community.
