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Lifebridge Responding To The Homeless Epidemic

September 15, 2019

Homelessness in Salem has increased in recent years. In our mission to end homelessness, we’re working within the North Shore communities every day to spread awareness of our locations and to welcome new clients in the region. 

In 2017, Salem Police Captain Conrad Prosniewski noted “The statistics are staggering. We have a homeless problem in Salem, and the number of calls is going up.” This is noticeable for residents and visitors alike. 

Recognizing Those Experiencing Homelessness

What separates transient homeless people from chronically homeless individuals is their willingness to accept help. This is where we come in. 

Lifebridge is here on the North Shore to reach the community of individuals experiencing homelessness with our programs, community meals, shelters, and case management.

In Salem, mental health and substance abuse is common among the homeless community. It’s tough to reach people who don’t want to accept and welcome the help they need. 

It’s understandable why people come together and hang around Salem– with the beautiful waterfronts and downtown area, Salem is a comfortable place for individuals experiencing homelessness.

There are many initiatives taken by the City of Salem to recognize and spread public awareness of this epidemic. We want to talk about this, bring light to this situation, and tackle this in our region.

two men helping with community meals

Lifebridge Through Consistency And Community

As Lifebridge now has locations in Gloucester, Beverly, and Salem, we are reaching the maximum number of clients we have before. Our services reach more of the North Shore, and we’re having more people apply to volunteer with us. 

We’re making progress, but we can’t stop here! There is still so much that can be done. With our staff working with clients every day, and our volunteers making our programs possible, we know consistency and community are key. 

If you’re looking for ways to show your support for Lifebridge, reach out to our staff today and see how you can volunteer and get involved. Together, with your help and the help of surrounding communities, we can keep pushing to end homelessness.