|  | Public Health Safety | Community

Challenges of Homelessness in Bellflower, California

Bellflower, CA, is located in Los Angeles County. It has a population of 72,862 people, and it covers six square miles. Bellflower is primarily Hispanic. The unemployment rate is high at 12.3%, and the majority of people with jobs are working in sales positions or production and factory jobs. There are a number of factors unique to Bellflower, which present challenges to the homeless population.

  1. No Homeless Shelters

    • There are currently no homeless shelters located in Bellflower, which means there is nowhere for the homeless to sleep without leaving the area. The closest homeless shelter is located in Norwalk, over five miles away. Although there are resources available for children or families with children who are homeless, there are relatively few resources for homeless adults.

    Natural Disasters

    • Bellflower, CA, has been directly affected by earthquakes on multiple occasions. During an earthquake or other emergency, there are little-to-no resources for the homeless.

    Crime

    • Bellflower has high rates of crime in the categories of burglary, theft and robberies. According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, homeless individuals are 66-82% more likely to be the victim of crime than any other demographic. This puts the homeless in Bellflower at an increased risk for having their possessions or resources stolen.

    Environmental Dangers

    • Bellflower, CA, has higher-than-average levels of air pollution and lead. With the homeless spending most of their time outside and in inadequate shelters, they are at an increased risk of getting sick from pollutants or suffering from lead poisoning. This is particularly true for homeless children. Children are already at an increased risk of lead poisoning.

    High Cost of Living

    • The high cost of living in Bellflower makes it difficult for the homeless to change their situation. The average rent in Bellflower is $1,142 per month, and the average home value is $345,500. Without a sudden intake of money or assistance through a social service agency, it would be very difficult for an individual to go from homeless to affording rent and utilities.

Community - Related Articles