2
Geography Project Plan
Help to stop substance abuse in the homeless community in New York
Mission Statement
My mission is to help create a nurturing environment for rehabilitation for the homeless
community in Upstate New York, particularly those grappling with substance abuse, by working
with local churches and other faith-based organizations.
Introduction
Both homelessness and substance abuse are two connecting issues that have been
plaguing our society for decades. In upstate New York, there are 91,897 homeless people
statewide, and a significant portion of the homeless population is struggling with substance abuse
(New York - National Alliance to End Homelessness, 2019). My mission is to not only provide
temporary relief but, to create lasting change by addressing the root causes of these issues. By
partnering with local churches and faith-based organizations, our goal is to provide a safe and
supportive environment where homeless individuals can rehabilitate, find spiritual support, and
ultimately reintegrate into society as empowered individuals.
General Overview and Rationale
The persistent problem of homelessness in New York stems from a variety of factors such
as economic factors, lack of social support, systematic issues, mental issues, and substance
abuse. The relationship between substance abuse and homelessness is intricate and cyclical as
each condition exacerbates the other. The problem of drug addiction among the homeless is not
confined to one region but is a global concern. In the latest global survey conducted by the
United Nations in 2005, an estimated 100 million people were homeless worldwide. This
alarmingly high figure is on the rise and demands immediate intervention. According to the 2013
AHAR, 257,000 people who were homeless had a severe mental illness or a chronic substance
abuse issue. By tackling the issue of substance abuse our churches and local faith-based
organizations can help assist individuals in overcoming the significant hurdle of homelessness.
Region Relevance
New York State is divided into two regions: downstate, which includes the bustling city,
and upstate, which is characterized by the beautiful Adirondack and Catskill Mountains. New
York is located in the Northeast, and shares borders with New Jersey and Pennsylvania to the
south, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont to the east, and Canada to the north. The state
experiences all four seasons, with long and cold winters, followed by a wet and rainy spring that
transitions into a hot summer. Fall is one of the most comfortable seasons to be outside.
However, homelessness and substance abuse can be challenging issues to face regardless of the
season.
3
Geography Project Plan
Location Relevance
New York is the 27th largest state in the United States, covering an area of 54,555 square
miles. As of 2022, the estimated population of New York State is 19.7 million. The most
populous city in the United States, New York City, has a population of 8.3 million. This high-
density city contributes to the concentration of homelessness. The cityscape is characterized by
towering buildings and paved roads, while the upstate region is marked by expansive farmland
and numerous lakes and ponds. The highest point of New York is Mount Marcy 5,343 feet and
the lowest point is the Atlantic Ocean sea level.
Place Relevance
Individuals experiencing homelessness in New York often congregate near educational
institutions and transit hubs such as train stations and bus stops. These locations provide them
with opportunities to solicit funds, which they may use to meet their basic needs or to buy
substances that help them manage the hardships of homelessness. While there are existing
organizations and shelters designed to aid these individuals, the current capacity is insufficient to
accommodate the existing homeless population. The city mission aligns with the objective of
providing shelter, but the demand far exceeds the available resources.
Movement Relevance
New York is famously known for its fast pace and heavy traffic. Unfortunately, the
subway system in New York is notorious for crime and drug activity, which makes it a negative
environment. This is also the main mode of transportation for the homeless population. The state
became overcrowded after immigration. Between 1815 and 1880, New York City served as the
primary destination for immigrants. Many immigrants arrived in New York with the hope of
becoming US citizens and decided to settle down in the state. The city is a major tourist
attraction, drawing visitors to landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, which has
a rich history of immigrants entering the United States.
Human-Environmental Interaction relevance
Living in New York City can be financially challenging due to the competition for
resources and the high cost of living. The prevalence of drugs is high, while affordable housing
is scarce. Consequently, substance abuse is a widespread problem in the city. The homeless
population is particularly vulnerable to substance abuse due to the expensive housing market and
lack of affordable housing options. The cost of living in New York State is@$3141, which is 1.52
times more expensive than the average in the United States and NY is ranked the most expensive
state to live in in the United States. Social environments play a critical role in substance abuse.
Stressful social encounters and environments can lead to high levels of stress, which can, in turn,
result in substance abuse. Furthermore, isolation, violence, and trauma can affect an individual
and lead them to seek a coping mechanism like drugs and alcohol.
4
Geography Project Plan
Budget
To make this mission possible without a lot of money I will be getting churches and local
faith-based organizations to volunteer their time and space. We can also organize fundraising
events to raise awareness and funds for marketing efforts that can help us reach out to as many
people as possible. By keeping our mission donation-based, we can keep our budget to a few
hundred dollars per year.
Summary
We can play a crucial role in helping homeless individuals struggling with substance
abuse. We can help by connecting with churches so they can help through their outreach
programs, soup kitchens, and other community services. The goal is to provide emotional and
spiritual support to these individuals by offering counseling services, prayer groups, and other
forms of spiritual guidance to help them cope with their addiction. After rehabilitation, we can
continue to support these individuals by providing aftercare services like counseling, support
groups, and assistance in finding housing and employment. Advocating for policies and
resources that support the homeless and those struggling with substance abuse costs as little as
nothing. Lobbying local government, raising awareness in the community, and fundraising for
resources is another cost-friendly way to achieve my mission. By welcoming homeless
individuals into any community can provide the homeless with a sense of belonging and purpose.
This can be a powerful motivator in their recovery process. The goal is not to replace
professional medical and psychological help but to supplement it and provide a supportive
community for those in recovery.
6
Geography Project Plan
References
New York - National Alliance to End Homelessness. (2019, August 15). National Alliance to End
Homelessness. https://endhomelessness.org/homelessness-in-america/homelessness-
statistics/state-of-homelessness-report/new-york/
LMSW, S. M. (2023, August 22). Substance Abuse and Homelessness: Statistics and rehab
treatment. American Addiction Centers. https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-
guide/homeless
Global Homelessness Statistics — Homeless World Cup. (n.d.). Homeless World Cup.
https://www.homelessworldcup.org/homelessness-statistics/
New York cities by population (2023). (n.d.).
https://worldpopulationreview.com/states/cities/new-york
Cost of Living in New York State, US: 115 cities compared. (2023, August 8). Livingcost.org.
https://livingcost.org/cost/united-states/ny
Powered by TCPDF (www.tcpdf.org)
