By Lindsey Doi

EUGENE, Ore. -- Community members gathered on Friday to discuss the growing issue of homelessness on Eugene's streets.

Though some may brush off the problem, saying it's too expensive or difficult to fix, homeless advocates say it's an important social issue that affects everyone, and that solutions are necessary.

Advocates say, among other things, affordable housing programs are needed to provide long-term solutions, and that warming shelters can help the homeless survive the winter.

St. Vincent de Paul says the fastest-growing population of people needing help are two-parent working families, due to the inability to pay for rising costs.

SVDP is currently selling Christmas ornaments to help raise money for additional bedding uspplies. They gave out 5,800 sleeping bags and bedrolls in 2008, and they say demand is even higher this year.