Homelessness #3

Homelessness is a very huge problem that America has come to face. Millions of people, including children, families, babies, veterans, and the elderly live day after day without food, water or a roof over their heads. People that are mentally ill also have it tough on the streets, which can be extremely confusing to them, and dangerous to the rest of society. This problem must be solved soon, and therefore should be addressed as a major crisis that is affecting our society.The number of homeless families with children has increased significantly over the past decade or so. They are among the fastest growing segments of the homeless population.

Declining wages and changes in the welfare programs account for increasing poverty among families. Declining wages have put housing out of reach for many families: in every state, metropolitan area, county, and town, more than the minimum wage is required to afford a one or two bedroom apartment at Fair Market Rent. In fact the wages needed to afford a two bedroom apartment is more than twice the minimum wage.(Fox19)

The largest program for the poor was the Aid to Families with dependant Children.While demand for emergency food and shelter is increasing, the supply in both categories has failed to keep up. Over half of the cities reported having to cut back on the number of bags of food provided, and to limit the number of times people are allowed to receive food. In every city surveyed, families and individuals relied on food assistance both in emergencies and as a steady source of food over long periods. Fourteen percent of those asking for food were denied due to short supply.

Poor health can contribute to being homeless, and being homeless can lead to poor health. Limited access to health care can make it worse. That's why the health of homeless people in the United States is worse than that of the general population.

Mental health problems

Substance abuse problems

Bronchitis and pneumonia

Problems caused by being outdoors

Wound and skin infections

Many homeless women are victims of domestic or sexual abuse. Homeless children have high rates of emotional and behavioral problems, often from having witnessed abuse.(L.A. Times)


September 7, 2011/Richard Winton/L.A. Times
Sep 12, 2011 2:06/Amber Stegall/FOX19