Did you know July is Disability Awareness Month? Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), disabilities are defined as “having a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, having a history of an impairment, or being regarded as having an impairment.” While there is no set list of conditions that are protected under the ADA, it’s important to recognize that many disabilities aren’t visible or easily recognized. Mental health disorders, like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or schizophrenia, are among those that are not physically seen, but have tremendous impacts on everyday life.
People with a disability are disproportionately more likely to experience homelessness.
The intersectionality of having a disability while also experiencing homelessness is profound. In fact, data shows that nearly 25% of those experiencing homelessness also have one or more disabilities. We already know that access to resources and support are already limited for our most vulnerable but get scarcer with the addition of a disability. During our operations, we have seen many Alaskans in wheelchairs, missing limbs from frostbite, and various mental health disorders that have resulted in homelessness. With proper resources and support, those with disabilities can lead successful productive lives.
Just like Mailo, who after experiencing homelessness found a job with Henning Inc. Mailo is one of the hardest workers at the mass congregate shelter, despite needing crutches to move. “All I needed is work, a job,” Mailo explained while telling his story. “Without all this help, I’d probably freeze to death." Read the rest of Mailo’s story here: https://www.henninginc.org/success-stories
Last year, we were honored to be nominated for a Community Impact Award along with 19 other incredible non-profits in Alaska. While serving 81% of Anchorage’s homeless population last winter, we’re proud to continue to make opportunities for more Alaskans like Mailo. Will you help nominate us to be this year’s Community Impact Awardee? Nominations can be made daily here: https://www.impactak.com/ Thank you for your continued support as we make strides in addressing homelessness head-on.
Shawn Hays
Founder and Executive Director
Henning Inc
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