Homeless families, looking for shelter anyway they can

KALAMAZOO COUNTY, Mich. (NEWSCHANNEL 3) – Newschannel 3 is taking a hard look at the issues of families and homelessness.

In Kalamazoo County there are a number of families dealing with incredible stress as they try to keep a roof over their heads.

On Friday we spoke to several families who say they are running out of options. Some who stay in hotels and can't afford the rent, while others have too many people to safely stay in one room, all face challenges that continue to mount.

“It's four kids and two adults,” said Angela Fluellyn.

Fluellyn says the one bedroom motel room is the best she can do right now, she says her weekly rent is going up to $200.

“Nobody has too much income besides cash assistance, apply for jobs, no guarantee that anybody gets employment,” said Fluellyn.

Fluellyn says she's been busy filling out applications, but currently the family relies on government assistance for rent and the food bank for food.

Tyler Kuhbander lives in a motel with his baby and the baby's mother. He worries that he won't be able to continue to afford the rent either.

“Probably going to the mission,” said Kuhbander.

Rev. Michael Brown, executive director at the Gospel Mission, says between 60 and 80 children are among those who stay at the mission on any given night, and says there's no telling how many families choose instead to live on the streets or in motel rooms.

“A lot of people, even living in a motel, don't see themselves as homeless,” said Rev. Brown, “and don't want to follow the structure we need to make this place work.”

The mission also knows they could see more homeless families coming to them for help. A capital campaign is now underway to build more rooms for families and women.

Fluellyn says she was kicked out of the mission once because of a disagreement, but admits if she can't afford a motel room anymore, she made need to return.

“I'm going to do whatever I can for my kids,” said Fluellyn.

In 2010, in addition to adults, nearly 1,300 children needed shelter in Kalamazoo County.