The Problem of Homelessness
According to the HUD (Housing and Urban Development) report, nearly half of the nation’s homeless are men. Approximately one-fourth of these homeless live in Los Angeles and New York City. While many homeless people live in car and RV parks, there are also unsheltered homeless people who spend the night in abandoned buildings or in unprotected places. The problem is far more widespread than the numbers suggest. The number of people experiencing homelessness in America reaches over 750,000 at any given time.
The definition of homelessness is complex and varied. It includes not only a physical lack of shelter, but also social exclusion, lack of affordable housing, and discrimination. There are many reasons why people become homeless, from the lack of affordable housing, to gentrification, which pushes low-income families into an unsuitable situation. In addition, many people face multiple challenges in the process, including eviction, increased rents, and reduced health.
Currently, there are different categories of homelessness. People who are considered homeless may be in need of emergency shelter, transitional housing, or are leaving an institution. It is important to note that not everyone experiencing homelessness meets these criteria, however. Those who do are eligible for homelessness assistance and are living in a temporary housing or emergency shelter. The HUD also requires that people with certain documents show that they are homeless. People who meet the requirements for homelessness assistance can be considered to be chronically homeless.
Despite the fact that the homeless population is relatively small, the number of people experiencing homelessness is rapidly increasing. There are 610,000 people experiencing homelessness in the United States on any given night. About one-third of those are children. Homeless people tend to be more susceptible to illness, hospitalization, and death than the general population. Unlike the general population, homeless people have shorter lives than the average person. Their average life span is between forty-two and fifty-two years, which makes them less likely to have children. Despite this, they are usually not as unhealthy as others.
In June 1988, the National Alliance to End Homelessness published an estimate of the number of people experiencing homelessness. According to the organization, between 735,000 and 2.0 million people are homeless on any given night. This estimate includes individuals who are living in rural and suburban communities. Additionally, the report found that the number of homeless individuals in the United States grew by up to fifty percent each year. This data suggests that the number of homeless in the United States is at an all-time high.
In 2002, children and families were the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population. This group presented a new set of challenges to local organizations and social service providers. However, their numbers have increased steadily in the years since then. It is therefore vital to continue this work. The next time you see a homeless person, don’t let it become an excuse to ignore them. Take action today. There are many ways to help the homeless. And don’t forget to visit the HUD website to learn more about the many ways in which you can get assistance for them.
