Homeless Charities Struggling in Hard Times

by SlumJack Homeless · 2010-01-12 16:15:00 UTC
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During tough times, charities need more but get less.

A new survey from London-based Homeless Link reports that 51% of the umbrella organization's 480 member groups have been affected significantly or very significantly by the economic downturn.

Not surprisingly, The Impact of the ‘Credit Crunch’ survey also shows that at the same time that general economic conditions strain resources, two thirds of respondents reported an increase in demand for their services -- more than double the number reporting increased demand just over a year ago.

Half the charities surveyed said that personal donations have declined (52%), while more than a third report that grants (41%) and government funding (35%) have been affected. While grant money and funding takes time to come through, the personal donation flow might more immediately be stimulated through some education and grassroots campaigns.

Based on numbers previously released in the U.S., American organizations are having similar struggles. According to the Association of Fundraising Professionals, more than 50% of all charities saw donations drop off in 2009. One study from a consulting firm for non-profits said that 93% of organizations were feeling the recession and 80% had had funding cut.

If you're able to give, now is the time to do it.

Photo credit: Irish Typepad

SlumJack Homeless has a background in media, business and property management but has been homeless since the summer of 2008.
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