Like other modern disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and exacerbated inequalities in American society. That’s according to a recent study written by researchers in IU’s Sociology Department.
Emily Pike is the executive director of New Hope For Families, a local organization that helps supplement child care and housing for vulnerable families.
She said her organization has seen COVID hurt families’ chances for stability, especially when it comes to housing.
“We've seen a significant increase in demand," she said. "I really wouldn’t be surprised if by the end of this year, our numbers were close to double what they normally are.”
During a fiscal year, New Hope usually services 25 to 30 families in their shelter. This year Pike says they are already at 38, with more than 3 months left in their fiscal year.
New Hope also services about 20 families in hotels and motels, and right now they are servicing about 35.
She says New Hope For Families has expanded its shelter capacity during the pandemic, and a lot of COVID-19’s socioeconomic fallout is still coming.
She says people who have fallen behind on their lease or rent payments because of the pandemic can apply for state assistance at indianahousingnow.org.
Beacon Inc. and New Hope For Families are administering funds for those approved locally.
So far, they’ve distributed almost $100,000 in rental assistance.
