The following article was published by Scott Ferris, Executive Director at Family Promise of the Triangle, a partner organization
Did you know that family homelessness experiences a dramatic rise during the summer? This “Summer Surge,” as analysts and agencies call it, can see a 50% increase in families seeking emergency shelter. But why does this seasonal trend exist?
One key factor is the increased cost of utilities during the summer months. With rising temperatures, families grapple with doubling or tripling their electricity bills to keep their homes cool and safe for their children.
Beyond utility costs, summer brings additional burdens. The loss of free or reduced-cost school lunches means families face higher grocery bills. Moreover, childcare becomes a necessity for working parents, adding another financial strain.
Another common scenario is that gracious friends or family members will take a family into their home to give them time to get back on their feet. The summer months, with the added utility costs and the additional people home during the day, may cause extra strain on hosts, leading to them asking the guest family to leave.
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All of this contributes to clothing insecurity. During summer months it is critical to continue our clothing distribution to families in need, and equally critical to stock and prepare clothing wardrobes that need to be in place before school starts. Please consider making a donation today to help keep families secured with clothing during these months.