Homelessness is an issue that is close to my heart for more reasons than one. Most importantly, there was a time not long ago when my mother was without a home, a job, or the basic necessities that we so often take for granted. Regardless of the choices that may have led her there, and those who currently struggle with homelessness, I feel that no one should be left without a home or without having their basic needs met. Unfortunately, we don't live in a perfect world and homelessness is truly a social problem. I believe more people need to be informed and educated on this topic in order to actually make lasting change. Before having to face the fact that one of the closest and most important people in my life was homeless, I hadn't given much thought or even a consideration to this topic. Most people, myself included, are too quick to judge those who find themselves in these unfortunate circumstances. If we only took the time to consider their story and their help, what kind of world would we live in? According to the National Health Care for the Homeless Council, a homeless person is defined as "an individual who lacks housing (regardless) of whether the individual is a member of a household), including an individual whose primary residence during night is a supervised public or private facility (e.g., shelters) that provides temporary housing and an individual who resides in temporary housing is an individual without permanent housing who may live on the streets; single room facility, abandoned building or vehicle; or in any other unstable or non-permanent situation [Public Health Service Article 330……medium document……and is an ongoing process to adapt to the days, weeks, months and years ahead. They will have to continue to overcome the obstacles that stand in their way and continue to move forward towards their visions. I have no doubt that these organizations will continue to serve Stanislaus County successfully. They have impacted people's lives in more ways than they could imagine and are certainly helping to shape these people tomorrow. I am personally grateful to the selfless people who committed themselves and worked tirelessly to keep the idea of ​​helping people alive even when it was difficult to see the future. beauty in all this. If it weren't for organizations like these, I don't know if my mom would be here today. I firmly believe that these organizations change lives!