According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s report to Congress, a total of 771,480 people in the United States experienced homelessness.
Nearly 150,000 children experienced homelessness on a single night in 2024, reflecting a 33 percent increase over 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, children (under the age of 18) were the age group that experienced the largest increase in homelessness.
Over the last 15 years, North Carolina has outstripped national trends in its increase of unsheltered people. The total population that is homeless and without shelter in the state increased by 50% from 2010 to 2024, compared to 17% nationally. “Sheltered” homelessness means staying in emergency shelters, transitional housing programs, or safe havens. “Unsheltered” homelessness means the person’s regular nighttime location is not designated for, or ordinarily used, as a regular sleeping accommodation (e.g., a park, bus or train station, abandoned building, car or camping ground).
We’re not doing enough to help our homeless population. Current methods aren’t working. That’s why we’re building a different path out of homelessness. One that leads to stability, independence, and ultimately, homeownership.
At The Renewal Foundation, we believe a fresh start should lead to something permanent, not temporary. We are actively developing programs and partnerships to serve our community, including employment training, counseling services, and affordable housing initiatives designed for long-term stability.
Through our small homes initiative, we’re working to provide affordable, energy-efficient housing designed to keep both upfront and long-term living costs within reach. Because it’s not just about getting people into a home, it’s about helping them stay there.
Our services are designed to help individuals rebuild their lives. Each participant is supported through structured workshops focused on life skills, financial stability, and personal growth. Potential residents are screened to create a clear, goal-driven plan that addresses the unique challenges they face.
We work toward home ownership not keeping a family dependent on monthly vouchers. When a resident is ready we help them get into one of our small energy efficient homes.
We don’t just respond to homelessness, we work to understand it at its root, removing barriers and creating real opportunities for lasting change. As we launch and expand our programs, we are actively building partnerships and resources to serve individuals and families in need.
Our mission is to strengthen individuals, restore families, and build a community where stability isn’t temporary, it’s sustainable.
Our Vision in Action
Financial Principles
Designed to help individuals and families break free from financial stress and build a stable, self-sustaining future
Family Foundations
Designed to equip parents and caregivers with the practical tools, knowledge, and support needed to create stable, nurturing, and healthy home environments.
Trauma counseling and Therapy
Help individuals process trauma, develop coping skills, and rebuild emotional strength after experiences such as domestic violence.
Employment Training
Equipping individuals with the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to enter the workforce and succeed long-term.
Substance Abuse Counseling
A structured class that helps individuals understand addiction, break destructive cycles, and build the skills needed for long-term recovery and stability.
Anger Management
Designed to help individuals manage anger, reduce conflict, and develop healthier emotional responses.
Renewal Foundations Energy-efficient Homes
Sustainable Living Through Affordable Small Homes . Efficient. Built for Long-Term Stability. Housing shouldn’t just be affordable upfront; it should remain affordable every single month after that. That’s where small homes make a powerful difference.
