MONROE, La. (KNOE) - November marks National Homelessness Awareness Month, and the Renewal Center of Northeast Louisiana is urging the community to recognize the realities faced by those experiencing homelessness.

“Homelessness looks just like you and I,” Varner said. “People are not walking around with a sign on their back saying ‘I’m homeless.’ You walk by them every day and don’t know their situation.”

Homelessness can take many forms—living in vehicles, shelters, or temporarily staying with friends and family. The Renewal Center currently operates a 40-bed facility for men, but with rising demand, they’re working to expand services to include housing for women.

“There is a need,” Varner said. “We’re primarily supported by a few churches, businesses, and individuals. If we had more s

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