As the housing crisis in Gallatin County continues to intensify, GGUW is dedicated to helping Family Promise of Gallatin Valley (FPGV) expand its Emergency Shelter for families with children. This expansion will provide vital wrap-around services that go beyond housing, addressing mental and physical health, education, and long-term stability. GGUW is proud to be part of this critical effort, ensuring families have the resources to regain stability and break free from homelessness.
Gallatin County faces a severe housing shortage, with 90% of housing units occupied and 20,000 renter households struggling to find affordable options. According to the 2024 Gallatin Housing Report, Bozeman’s housing costs are 62% higher than the national average, with rents averaging $2,400/month—far beyond what many low- and middle-income families can afford. This crisis is compounded by a 73% increase in homeless students in the Bozeman School District this year alone.
In response to this demand, FPGV has rapidly expanded its services, now assisting 720% more families than before. With GGUW’s support, FPGV will be able to provide shelter to 45 families per year, ensuring homelessness is brief and nonrecurring.
The impact of homelessness on families, especially children, is profound. Families experiencing homelessness face higher rates of physical and mental health issues, with unhoused individuals having a life expectancy of just 42-52 years. Children are at a particularly high risk, experiencing developmental delays at four times the rate of their peers. 33% of homeless children under five show delays, and they are four times more likely to drop out of school, facing long-term challenges to their education and well-being. However, trauma-informed care and stable housing have proven effective in reversing these effects, giving families the chance to rebuild and thrive.
We are proud to support FPGV in their mission to help families overcome homelessness and build a brighter, healthier future. With your continued support, we can expand their services and provide essential resources to those in need. Together, we are making a real difference in the lives of families across Gallatin Valley.
For more information on how you can support Family Promise of Gallatin Valley, visit their website or contact GGUW to find ways to get involved.
Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient community—one family at a time.
