I am a teacher at a local Manchester elementary school with a couple of students who want to make a positive impact on our community, by helping the New Hampshire Homeless Population.

Student's Stance: In recent years, the homeless population in New Hampshire has seen a troubling rise. From just 1,382 individuals experiencing homelessness in 2019, the number has surged to 2,241 by 2025—an increase of over 62%. If we do not act now, the situation will only worsen, leaving more individuals without the basic security of a roof over their heads.

Homelessness affects everyone, from children forced to miss school due to a lack of stable shelter to families who struggle to find a place to sleep. 

But this is not just a statistic. Each number represents a person in need, a member of our community who deserves our support and attention. For many, homelessness is not a choice but the result of an unfortunate combination of hardships and struggles. The consequences of not taking action to help are felt not only by those living on the streets but also by the communities around them.

We need the State of New Hampshire to step up and provide more solutions to support the homeless. Here’s how we can make a difference:

1. Increase funding for shelters and emergency housing so that no one is left out in the cold.

2. Develop affordable housing  to ensure that everyone has access to a permanent home.

3. Expand mental health services to address some of the root causes of homelessness.

4. Create job training programs and employment opportunities for the homeless population.

These steps are not only necessary but urgent. We need resources for the New Hampshire homeless population. We urge everyone to join us in advocating for these changes. Let's come together to support some of our most vulnerable community members and help them on a path to a better future. 

Teacher Stance: We urge the New Hampshire state government to take action now. We can help the homeless population and our community.

Please sign and share this petition to support the homeless community in New Hampshire and show my students that their voices count.