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Calls for a new initiative against Sioux Falls poverty

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) Anti-poverty advocates are urging Minnehaha County and Sioux Falls to unite behind a more long term strategy to help the growing number of people in need.

As the local Homeless Advisory Board puts it: Which would you choose: the child with the match or a house already on fire?

It looks like the drug epidemic is causing more homelessness and domestic abuse than ever before.

Advisory Board officials on Tuesday were discussing all sorts of disturbing statistics with a joint meeting of the Sioux Falls City Council and the Minnehaha County Commission:

There are at least 928 homeless children in the Sioux Falls School District.

Up to 15 homeless families are seeking help each week.

The number of women with children seeking shelter from domestic violence is up nearly 6 percent. 

Mental illness among the homeless is a growing problem.

Drug crimes are up....and the sobering statistics go on and on and on. 

The Advisory Board says that the Sioux Falls area is doing fine in short terms responses to the needs, but should develop a better long term strategy, including affordable housing, public awareness, and support services to help people escape poverty and homelessness.


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