Shelter and Resource (Savannah)

Name: Jessica Thompson

Major: Psychology and Statistics

How did I get involved in IMPACT?:

Throughout my first year, EVERYONE I knew that was older than me was telling me to apply for an IMPACT trip. I didn’t really get what all of the hype was about, but I applied anyways because I was looking to get more involved, meet new people, and learn more about social justice topics I was interested in. Once I went on my trip to Philadelphia for Disability Awareness and Advocacy, I certainly understood why everyone raved about their trips. Not only was I able to participate in a week of service in a completely new city, but I also met some of my favorite people I’ve met at UGA so far! The next year I was able to lead a trip on Animal Welfare and Advocacy in Charleston, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences.

Why am I interested in my trip focus?

Shelter and resource access is a trip focus that is outside of my comfort zone, so I’m really interested in learning more about it. There are so many stereotypes and stigmas regarding homelessness, and it’s a complex issue that I can’t wait to dive deeper into. Savannah has one of the worst homeless rates, so I think it will be eye opening for both participants and site leaders to see this area.

Fun fact?

I play guitar in a band in Athens!

Contact info
(404)-403-9519
impact.savannaga.wb@gmail.com + jbt07685@uga.edu

Contact Info:
(478)-951-5192
impact.savannahga.wb@gmail.com + hsy06426@uga.edu

Name: Hiyam Yacout

Major: Landscape Architecture

How you got involved in impact:

I heard about IMPACT from friends that have been involved and went on to lead trips. I came in with very little knowledge about the organization and the trip focus, but my outlook was changed completely afterwards. It was an eye-opening experience that made me want to become more involved in my community and continuously expand my knowledge. I also met some of the most amazing people through my IMPACT experience.

Why you’re interested in your trip focus:

Shelter and Resource Access is an all encompassing social justice issue that covers homelessness and affordable housing, access to food, mental health and much more in our everyday lives. I actually went on the Shelter and Resource access trip, and it only made me want to dive deeper into the issue at hand. I am ecstatic to know that I will be now leading this trip, and getting to serve the Savannah community once again. The homelessness rate in Savannah is over 1,500, and it’s important that we are aware of the ways we can help.

Fun fact?

I love to dance!

ABOUT SHELTER + RESOURCE ACCESS

Shelter & Resource Access is a multi-faceted issue that focuses on people experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, physical/mental health and access to resources. Advocating for those who are homeless and are in need involves helping connect people with shelter, food, access to healthcare and supplies to live. Savannah has a large homeless population of nearly 5,000 people, and parts of Savannah have many homeless camps. These people are often resource-deficient as well and lack food, toiletries, and other basic items. Our trip aims to both educate participants on this issue and also work directly and indirectly with those experiencing shelter and resource access issues.

TERMS TO KNOW:

At-Risk of Homelessness- people who are not experiencing homelessness, but whose current economic and/or housing situation is dangerous or does not meet public health and safety standards.
Affordable Housing- any type of housing, including rental/home ownership, permanent/temporary, for-profit/non-profit, that costs less than 30% of a household’s pre-tax income.
Crisis Housing – an emergency shelter in the homeless coordinated entry system. Crisis Housing means any facility, the primary purpose of which is to provide temporary shelter for the homeless or to provide a bridge to permanent housing.
Housing Policy- refers to the actions of government, including legislation and program delivery, which have a direct or indirect impact on housing supply and availability, housing standards and urban planning.
Gentrification- the process of repairing and rebuilding homes and businesses in a deteriorating area (such as an urban neighborhood) accompanied by an influx of middle-class or affluent people and that often results in the displacement of earlier, usually poorer residents
Poverty- condition in which a person or community lacks the financial resources and essentials for a minimum standard of living. Poverty means that the income level from employment is so low that basic human needs can't be met.
Child Poverty- child poverty refers to the proportion of children 17 years and under living in households where disposable income is less than half of the median in a given country.
Emergency Response- providing emergency supports like shelter, food and day programs while someone is experiencing homelessness.
Eviction Prevention- refers to any strategy or program, usually geared at renters that is designed to keep individuals and families in their home and that helps them avoid homelessness.
Low Food Security (old label=Food insecurity without hunger)- reports of reduced quality, variety, or desirability of diet. Little or no indication of reduced food intake.
Very Low Food Security(old label=Food insecurity with hunger)- reports of multiple indications of disrupted eating patterns and reduced food intake.
Environmental Racism- the institutional rules, regulations, policies or government and/or corporate decisions that deliberately target certain communities for locally undesirable land uses and lax enforcement of zoning and environmental laws, resulting in communities being disproportionately exposed to toxic and hazardous waste based upon race.