The Need

Single-parent households with one to two children are the fastest growing segment of the homeless population in the United States. Single-parent households in New Hampshire, as in the nation, face many obstacles when striving for economic self-sufficiency. Over 60% of single-parent households live in poverty. According to the New Hampshire Office of Homeless & Housing 2003 annual report, only 15% of very low-income families can afford a two-bedroom apartment.

The teen pregnancy rate in Laconia is one of the highest in the state of New Hampshire. Over 90% of these births are to single parents who are low-income. Many of these teens become Ozanam’s clients after they reach age 18. The lack of quality jobs, affordable childcare, affordable housing, and transportation are some of the larger difficulties faced by single-parent families in Belknap County. Single-parent families, primarily females, have found it extremely difficult to become economically self-sufficient on a minimal income and with the high cost of rent.

In Belknap County, according to the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority, the monthly median gross rental cost of a two-bedroom unit has jumped over 36% over the last 6 years. Median monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Belknap County is currently in excess of $850. Vacancy rates for rental units are below 1% in most towns. Minimum wage is still under $6.00 per hour. Under current conditions it would take over 100 hours of work income to pay rent. The current freeze on new applications for HUD Section 8 rent vouchers makes the need of our services even greater.