November 2024: Homeless Awareness Month

WHEREAS, more than 33,000 Michiganders experienced homelessness in 2023; and,

WHEREAS, a lack of affordable housing remains a significant community issue impacting persons seeking safe and stable housing in a community of their choice; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan saw a 5% decrease in veteran homelessness but a 3% increase statewide in the number of homeless young adults ages 18-24 in 2023; and

WHEREAS, the Michigan Campaign to End Homelessness continues to work with a strategic focus on increasing supply and reducing barriers to housing, using cross-sector collaboration, enhancing access to the homeless delivery system, and increasing prevention and diversion efforts to mitigate the risk of becoming homeless; and,

WHEREAS, the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, as well as the governor-appointed Michigan Interagency Council on Homelessness, the Michigan Homeless Policy Council, and Michigan's Campaign to End Homelessness are some of the many dedicated entities in our state whose efforts continue to make a difference in the lives of many residents enduring homelessness in our communities; and,

WHEREAS, during this month of November, we must show our gratitude for the dedicated and impactful work of our front-line homeless response system staff and provider partners serving those enduring homelessness;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 2024 as Homeless Awareness Month in Michigan.