See the person, Not their situation.

As we are wrapping up our “See the person, Not their situation” social media series, we want to highlight a few key takeaways and data. 

This series’ purpose has been to urge our followers, volunteers, and donors and greater community to understand the bigger picture of homelessness as well as the individual impact. While we see data commonly portrayed across the news, we wanted to highlight that individuals experiencing homelessness are more than their situation and more than the label “homeless”. When we look past the label and the assumptions that stick to this label, we see that individuals experiencing homelessness are fathers, mothers, carpenters, musicians, Veterans, gardeners, and much more.   

Without looking at the bigger picture, it is easy to believe the stereotypes and assumptions that come with such a complex situation like homelessness. Let’s take a moment to review a few powerful data points that demonstrate the gravity of homelessness in the United States:

• There were 1,205,292 children nationwide experiencing literal homelessness or doubled-up during the 2021-2022 school year. Source: National Center for Homeless Education

• There were 966 men/boys experiencing homelessness on a given night in Iowa in 2025. Source: Institute for Community Alliances

• There were 749 women/girls experiencing homelessness on a given night in 000000Iowa in 2025. Source: Institute for Community Alliances

• The percentage of Veterans experiencing homelessness decreased by 55.6% between 2010-2024. Source: U.S Department of Veteran Affairs (2025)

  
  

This data helps us to understand the scope of homelessness across the United States and our state. If you’d like to see more localized numbers related to Linn County, check out the annual Point-In-Time reports published on our county’s website, or check out this more recent Gazette article talking through community-wide efforts:

https://www.thegazette.com/local-government/progress-has-been-made-but-challenges-remain-in-addressing-linn-county-homelessness/  

But numbers alone can never tell the whole story. Behind every number is a person. Each person represented on these charts and graphs is navigating unique barriers to housing during one of the most difficult times of their life. Now you may be wondering…

Where do we go from here?

See the person, Not their situation may be wrapping up, but the work continues. The data reminds us that there is still work to be done across our country, state, and city. You can carry the message forward by using person-first language, supporting local homeless services, advocating for affordable housing, and leading with compassion. Homelessness is a situation. Humanity is constant. 

You can support Wilis Dady and the work we do by donating at www.willisdady.org/donate looking at our different volunteer opportunities at www.willisdady.org/volunteer or by checking out our goods donation list at www.willisdady.org/goods-donations You make a difference!