This week marks National Hunger and Homelessness Week (November 17-23), highlighting the challenges faced by individuals and families nationwide in accessing food and housing. Metro Social Services, along with advocates and organizations across the country, is raising awareness about these issues. The office has observed an increase in requests for assistance as colder weather and inflation continue to impact the community.
According to the Community Needs Evaluation report by Metro Social Services, Nashville has experienced higher poverty rates compared to its peer cities and the U.S. over the past decade. In Nashville, one-third of the 82,000 students in Metro Schools are economically disadvantaged, and a significant portion of the 94,000 residents over age 64 live on fixed incomes. Additionally, half of Nashville’s 424,000 workers earn less than a living wage, and half of its 304,000 renters face cost burdens from unaffordable rent. Homeownership rates also show disparity, with Black Nashvillians at 38.9% and White Nashvillians at 60.9%.
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The financial demands on potential homebuyers are steep, as they must earn $115,000 to afford a typical U.S. home, which is about $40,000 more than the median American household income. Only 9% of Nashville residents believe they can afford a home in their area. For seniors, 28.7% of homeowners and 62% of renters spent 30% or more of their income on housing in 2022. Moreover, one in ten Nashvillians experiences food insecurity, with the highest rates in ZIP codes 37207, 37208, and 37218 in North Nashville.
Middle-class residents are also feeling the effects of inflation, adjusting their spending habits as economic pressures mount. Access to food, rental assistance, and housing consistently rank among the top requests for help received by Metro Social Services.
To address these issues, Metro Social Services delivers approximately 16,500 meals monthly to seniors and disabled residents as part of the Meals on Wheels program. The organization assists individuals and families in applying for SNAP benefits and disability, provides rental assistance, and connects clients with affordable housing options. Additionally, they offer life-training classes to help clients manage finances, prepare for renting or owning a home, and manage conflict. They also partner with clothing donation sites and connect clients with counselors to help navigate stress and trauma.
Metro Social Services offers media opportunities such as interviews with experts, ride-alongs with Home Ambassadors conducting meal deliveries, and coverage of events like the annual Thanksgiving food giveaway on November 23, 2024, at the Metro Social Services Parking lot on Lebanon Pike. For more information, visit their website: Metro Social Services.
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Knoxville Announces Grants for Youth and Safety
The City of Knoxville is offering grant opportunities through its Office of Community Safety and Empowerment to support initiatives enhancing community safety and equity, particularly aimed at youth and violence prevention. Established by Mayor Indya Kincannon, these grants include programs for African American equity, youth engagement, violence prevention, and workforce readiness. Applications can be submitted on the Knoxville Office of Community Safety and Empowerment website.