Be a part of the homelessness solution in Boise and Idaho by pledging $22 on 2/22/22

“I always wondered why somebody didn’t do something about that — then I realized I am somebody.”

Within the routines of our daily lives and communities, it can be easy to forget about the challenges others face in Idaho. We go to work, school and church — and largely do not interact with people who look or live differently than us. We may give to charity or volunteer periodically to help those in need, but typically we aren’t confronted with the visible, crushing grind of poverty and homelessness.

Yet recently our community has been immersed in controversy about homelessness. Headlines such as “Shelter reaches ‘crisis level,’” “Housing advocates set up tents at Capitol” and “Tensions flare at protest of unhoused tent city and counter-protest potluck” are in the news. Instead of being able to retreat from this reality, many of us see people experiencing homelessness as we walk through downtown or drive into work.

Homelessness is uncomfortable — certainty for those who live in it every day. And for those of us who don’t face this reality, it can cause a visceral reaction when we see people living on the streets.

More than four years ago, I was similarly uncomfortable with the changing reality of homelessness in the Boise/Ada County area. I was frustrated by what I saw as a lack of regional leadership to address this complex issue. Ultimately, I decided that the best way I could help was to step up, run for office and try to bring together public and private partners to address the problem. My aim was to engage locally and ensure that Ada County doesn’t become overwhelmed by challenges associated with homelessness like many of our fellow Western communities.

I’m proud of the work we did during my time in public service. But after losing a hard-fought election, I’m now in the same situation as many of my fellow community members — watching the reality of an increasingly difficult housing environment from the sidelines and the homelessness challenges that come with it.

So what does a community-minded, pragmatic person do? Fortunately, we have excellent nonprofits in our area that are leading the way to ensure that people get out of the cold and into homes using data-driven best practices.

Local nonprofit CATCH reports that over 500 families are experiencing homelessness in the Treasure Valley, and that more than 100 of those families are living in their vehicles. The organization also has data that debunks some common misconceptions and reveals who is experiencing homelessness: One-third of families are fleeing domestic violence; one-quarter are over the age of 62; 60% have some sort of income; and 40% experience severe and persistent mental illness.

Playing on words, CATCH recently launched a monthly giving campaign called CATCH 22. This local nonprofit plans to house 22 more families experiencing homelessness in 2022 by securing $22 monthly donations. Last year, CATCH housed 150 households experiencing homelessness in the Treasure Valley.

Ending homelessness in the Treasure Valley and ensuring that the issue remains manageable will take a coalition of supporters who believe everyone deserves a home. Today is 2/22/22. What better day to step up and get involved with CATCH 22!

I encourage people reading this to learn about CATCH and join me in becoming a CATCH 22 supporter. Be “the somebody” who makes a change. Visit catchidaho.org to learn more.

This story was originally published February 22, 2022 at 4:00 AM.