The Union Gospel Mission is among those charitable organizations in cities across the nation, including Yakima, who report more requests for housing this year than last. A recent survey conducted by the US Conference of Mayors reveal some important statistics.

• 13% average increase in requests for emergency shelter; 22% increase in requests for shelter by homeless families alone

• 37% average increase in unmet requests for emergency shelter by homeless people overall; 52% among homeless families

• An average of 22% of homeless people in the cities are considered mentally ill; 34% are substance abusers; 20% are employed; and 11% are veterans

• 86% of the cities reported increases in requests for assisted housing by low-income families and individuals during the last year

• Applicants must wait an average of 16 months for public housing in the survey cities.

• According to city estimates, 40% of the homeless population are single men; 40% are families with children; 14% are single women; and 4% are unaccompanied minors