According to the Office of the Governor, Kelly officially signed the proclamation on November 1. As part of Homelessness Awareness Month, Kelly is acknowledging and honoring the organizations, service providers, and advocates in the state who actively strive to address the issue of homelessness.
The proclamation emphasizes the importance of collaboration among residents, businesses, and government leaders at all levels to work together in addressing homelessness. It highlights the need for sustainable housing solutions, reducing the stigmas associated with homelessness, and promoting dignity for individuals experiencing this issue.
The City of Topeka has been dealing with a rise in homelessness over the past few years. According to the latest Point in Time Homeless Count, Topeka and Shawnee County witnessed an 18% increase in homelessness from 2023 to 2024. Out of the total homeless population, 62% were male and 37% were female. Shockingly, there were 203 individuals who did not have access to emergency shelters or transitional housing.
