Election 2012

With Election Day upon us, I am thrilled to debut the “Neli Says” blog with an exciting announcement:

 A Safe Haven registered 452 individuals to vote!

Since 1992, the National Coalition for the Homeless sponsored the National Homeless and Low-Income Voter Registration Week.  I am pleased to say that A Safe Haven supported NCH’s mission by hosting the week-long event at our headquarters from September 30 to October 6, 2012. Some of the newly registered will be voting for the first time in their life. It is so vital that current and formerly homeless people have a voice in the democratic process. Issues of relevance to our residents include the following: economic inequality, healthcare, job creation, housing and social welfare programs. These issues are taking center stage in our national discourse.

Consider partnering with me in raising awareness for homeless suffrage.  I want the homeless population to have a voice. Within the course of this past year, over 100,000 Chicagoans were homeless, according to Chicago Coalition for the Homeless. Homeless people face numerous barriers related to voter registration such as lack of residency and applications fees for government IDs. Turnout among homeless voters is the lowest of all demographics; only 10 percent of homeless Americans vote each year, according to the National Coalition for Homelessness (NCH). With such a high number, homeless Chicagoans could make a difference in this year’s critical election.

Civic engagement may bring a return of purpose and human dignity to homeless people or marginalized populations. Voting makes people feel like they personally matter. Our residents will have the opportunity to vote for political leaders who have supported our EMPOWERMENT programs in the past. Our programs help individuals in financial crisis. We serve the following priority populations: returning Veterans, mothers with children, and those who have earned a second chance to achieve independence and the pursuit of happiness!

I am looking forward to ushering in a new era of growth and prosperity for this incredibly important voting bloc.

Neli