Toledo Streets

In an article written by Executive Director of the North American Street Newspaper Association, Andy Freeze, our own city of Toledo is mentioned (towards the end). The article, written on behalf of Vancouver’s street paper, Megaphone, is a great synopsis on the growth and efficacy of street papers.

“Last July, Street Speech in Columbus, Ohio, had a circulation of 800. In July of 2009, Street Speech had increased their circulation to 7,600. These are just a few examples of how street newspapers throughout North America are beating the odds by increasing circulation and offering a helping hand to those on the street.”

Popularity: 98% [?]

Time for some good news, eh? This article comes from a post on Homeless Tales, and quickly sketches an out-of-the-ordinary story for a hard-working young woman who was determined to make sure she covered all her bases. And guess what? It got her a hit – and, hopefully, will get her home.

Popularity: 100% [?]

This USA Today article online calls the current crisis of “falling revenue and rising need” a “perfect storm”. The article covers several state cutbacks across the country.

“Nationwide, government figures show that 1.6 million homeless people received shelter last year, largely unchanged from 2007, but the number of families increased 9% to 517,000.”

Popularity: 100% [?]

In this change.org article, Shannon Moriarty argues that while homeless hate crime legislation is needed, it will not change attitudes.

Popularity: 86% [?]

Steve Samra posts an article on change.org regarding the positive growth of The Contributor, Nashville’s local street paper.

Editor’s note: I had a chance to spend a little bit of time with Tasha French and Mark Lemley of The Contributor while at the NASNA Conference in Denver. Tasha and Mark were very patient and helpful, and have continued to be so as Toledo Streets works on its own launch.

Popularity: 94% [?]

A Wall Street Journal article reporting from Nashville discusses the “rise” of tent cities across the U.S.

“After years of enforcing anti-camping laws to break up homeless clusters, some cities are less inclined to crack down on the homeless because of the recession.”

Popularity: 88% [?]

A story in the Washington Times gives a brief overview of the lack of health care available for the unhoused, including families with children. The proposed health care reform may help solve the issue.

Popularity: 42% [?]

A CNN.com story based out of Los Angeles.

“Vietnam War veterans mentor a new generation of homeless vets in Los Angeles. CNN’s Barbara Starr reports.”

Popularity: 25% [?]