OVERVIEW
In the Bullhead City Region, which encompasses Bullhead City, Golden Valley, Mohave Valley, Laughlin and Needles, the population swells in the winter months to over 86,000. Approximately 15,000 will return to homes around the nation as summer heat increases. Of the remaining population, WACOG has identified over 30% as “at risk” in areas ranging from insufficient income to support their families to imminent homelessness.
Over 2,600 homeowners and over 2,900 renters in the general region that have, in a period of six months or less, applied for assistance (i.e. food, utility/fuel, rental and other general assistance). Households with a disability, be it physical, developmental, or mental, often need housing assistance in addition to targeted supportive services. Providing support to such persons can often prevent homelessness and foster self-sufficiency necessary for the emotional and financial health of the individual. In WACOG, households earning under 50% of the median “with problems” (cost burdened, overcrowded or living in substandard housing) also held a mobility or self-care limitation, suggesting the need for supportive housing. Of the identified households, 39% were owners and 61% were renters. Mohave County holds a disproportionate percentage of the need (source – Crystal & Company, Scottsdale, Arizona).
Food For Families has recognized the continued need for support of those at risk in our communities for over a decade and has strived to meet these needs with compassionate service. In any given week we distribute over 6,000 pounds of food. In recent years we have begun to serve those in our communities with insufficient housing. The Agape House ministers to homeless men with issues ranging from substance abuse to histories of running afoul of the legal system. By applying Scriptural Principles along with self-motivating life skills the success rate for those availing themselves of the program is nearly 100%.