Graham Jaehnig/Daily Mining Gazette The Salvation Army Bread of Life Center is part of a local team that is addressing homelessness in the Copper Country, an issue that becomes pressing with the approach of each winter.

HANCOCK — November was designated at Notional Homelessness Awareness Month and National Homeless youth Awareness Month. During the month, communities looked to increase awareness of the problem of housing insecurity and used the time to raise funds for local organizations that assist families and individuals who are homeless or at the risk of becoming homeless.

And while the month has ended, the effort to raise awareness of the problem of homelessness in the Keweenaw continues. Two local organizations — Advocates for Those Without a Voice (AWAVE) and Keweenaw Against the Oligarchy (KATO) — are working to raise $30,000 by the end of December for the local Salvation Army’s Housing Assistance Fund.

Proceeds will be used by the Salvation Army for direct assistance to prevent homelessness of individuals and families in the i western counties of the U.P., including Houghton and Baraga Counties. The Homeless Assistance Fund is separate from monies raised by the Salvation Army through the annual Red Kettle campaign.

Every day, local families struggle to make ends meet, whether it is for food,, medical ca, or housing. Estimates are that about a third of Americans cannot afford an unexpected $400 expense such as a car repair or medical bill. For many people, this means choosing between paying the bill or paying for housing, but not both. Timely intervention during such a crisis can make the difference between preserving their home or becoming homeless. The Salvation Army, along with its many community partners, is focused on providing services to prevent homelessness for eligible individuals and families.

To be eligible for housing assistance, individuals or families must have a qualified housing need., they must establish housing sustainability through a source of regular income, and the assistance provided must resolve the crisis at hand The $30,000 Homeless Assistance Fund is expected to provide assistance for up to 50 individuals or families through 2026.

AWAVE and KATO are seeking donations for individuals and organizations to meet this fundraising goal. Donations can be made by check payable to th Salation Army (designate that it is for the Direct Assistance Housing Fund) and mailed to The Salvation Army, 408 Ravine St. Hancock, MI 49930