When winter fades and the sun starts shining a little longer, many of us breathe a sigh of relief. But for those experiencing homelessness, warmer weather doesn’t bring the stability or security they need. The challenges of winter might be different from those of spring and summer, but they don’t just disappear with the cold.
The Myth of Seasonal Homelessness
A lot of people assume that homelessness is mainly a winter issue. The reality? It’s a struggle 365 days a year. While freezing temperatures are life-threatening, warmer months bring their own set of hardships, ones we don’t always think about.
Hunger Doesn’t Take a Break
Food insecurity is a year-round issue, but spring and summer can be especially tough. After the holidays, many food banks and shelters see donations drop off, leaving fewer meals available for those who rely on them.
For families experiencing homelessness, school lunches often provide a vital source of nutrition for kids. But as the school year comes to a close, that safety net disappears, making food insecurity even worse for children.
Fewer Shelter Options
Many winter shelters and emergency accommodations shut down when the weather warms up, leaving fewer safe places for people to stay.
And while sleeping outside might seem less dangerous without the freezing cold, people experiencing homelessness often face increased policing and displacement in the spring and summer. Cities tend to crack down on encampments or public sleeping, forcing individuals to constantly move, making it even harder to access support services.
Health Risks Don’t End With Winter
Spring and summer bring their own health concerns.
Dehydration & Heat Stroke – Without consistent access to water or shade, heat exhaustion and dehydration can be just as dangerous as winter’s freezing temperatures.
Allergies & Illness – Seasonal allergies can be miserable for anyone, but for those without access to medication or safe shelter, they can be unbearable.
Increased Violence & Crime – Warmer months tend to bring a rise in crime, and people experiencing homelessness are often at greater risk of violence, theft, and exploitation.
Barriers to Employment & Housing Don’t Magically Disappear
For those trying to get back on their feet, spring and summer don’t make it any easier to secure stable housing or employment.
Many jobs require reliable transportation, clean professional clothing, or an address, things that people without housing often don’t have. Even for those who find seasonal work, the wages are often too low to afford rent in a housing market where prices just keep climbing.
How You Can Help This Spring
Warmer weather might bring a sense of renewal, but it’s also a time to renew our commitment to supporting those in need. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Donate Food & Essentials – Many shelters and food pantries see a decline in donations after the holidays. If you can, donate non-perishable food, bottled water, and hygiene products to help keep people nourished and safe.
Support Local Shelters & Outreach Programs – Whether through financial donations, volunteering, or organizing a supply drive, your support makes a real impact. Consider getting involved with Cold Lake John Howard Society to help us continue our work.
Advocate for Affordable Housing – Homelessness won’t end without addressing the root causes. Speak up for policies that promote affordable housing, employment programs, and accessible support services.
Offer Kindness & Compassion – A simple gesture, like offering a meal, sharing resources, or even just listening, can make a world of difference to someone in need.
Final Thoughts
Spring might bring warmer days, but for many, it doesn’t bring relief from the struggles of homelessness. Food insecurity, lack of shelter, health risks, and financial barriers don’t go away with the snow.
At Cold Lake John Howard Society, we are committed to providing year-round support to those in need. But we can’t do it alone. With the help of our community, we can work toward real, lasting solutions to homelessness.
If we want to make real change, we need to remember that homelessness isn’t a seasonal issue, it’s a human issue.Let’s continue to show up, support, and advocate for those who need us most, no matter the time of year.
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