Community Networks and Involvement

The most frequently mentioned comment from providers was that there is a general lack of awareness, care, and involvement of citizens to carry the weight of the issues of homelessness in their own community. One provider said, "people are too busy in their daily lives to care about the homeless." There needs to be efforts just to keep people aware so that they familiarize themselves with the problems and look together for possible solutions. "It is important for people, students to realize that it isn't a dead end, neither for the homeless or the professionals who work for them."

Hiring people to work with homeless people can be difficult due to the pay scale and hours needed. However, many service delivery systems are mostly voluntary agencies and relief comes from volunteers. Faith-based services have been mentioned frequently as having a positive influence in Durham by volunteering manpower and financial support.

Needs

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Possible Solutions