Hunger and homelessness rising issues

This week is National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week and local government leaders and community members are taking aim at both issues in Tippecanoe County.

Executive Director of Transitional Housing Jennifer Layton said in 12 months they have seen a 52 percent increase.  That means that 4,000 new people have used their resources in the last year.

"That's a lot of people, and that's a lot of children," Layton said.

In addition to transitional housing the Food Bank in Lafayette has also seen a nearly 50 percent increase in the amount of food going out but has had less coming in.

"There's a big problem in our community and there's so much more that you can do to help people that are in that situation," said Mollie Kimbro.  

Kimbro, who was homeless while she was pregnant with her first child, graduated two years ago from Lafayette Transitional Housing.  She hopes the community can step up their efforts and give in any way they can to combat the growing problem in Tippecanoe County.

Layton agreed. 

"It's time for the community to step up and we need their help," said Layton. "Even if it's bringing in one canned good or writing a $20 check to any organization they choose. Every little bit we can do in our community does make a difference."