Skip to main content

Homeless in America

 

Homeless in America

David K. Ewen, M.Ed., Prof., TESOL, TEYL

The growing trend of homeless population in the United States is a major problem that needs urgent attention. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, there were approximately 567,715 homeless people in the United States on a given night in 2019. This is a significant increase from the previous year, and the numbers are expected to continue rising due to the ongoing economic hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Homelessness is a complex issue that affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.


The reasons for homelessness vary, but some of the most common factors include poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental illness, and addiction.

One of the contributing factors to the increase in homelessness is the rising cost of housing, particularly in urban areas. Many low-income individuals and families struggle to afford housing, and may be forced to choose between paying for housing and other basic necessities such as food and healthcare. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue, as many people have lost their jobs or experienced reduced income, making it even more difficult to afford housing.

Mental illness and substance abuse are also significant factors contributing to homelessness. Many individuals experiencing homelessness struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Substance abuse is also common among people experiencing homelessness, which can make it difficult for them to find and maintain stable housing.

The consequences of homelessness are severe and far-reaching. Homeless individuals are at a higher risk of experiencing physical and mental health problems, including malnutrition, chronic illnesses, and substance abuse. They are also more likely to experience violence and victimization, as they are often forced to live in unsafe and unsanitary conditions. Homelessness can also have a negative impact on children, as they may miss out on education and social opportunities, which can lead to long-term developmental problems.

Solving the problem of homelessness is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. This includes providing affordable housing, increasing access to healthcare and mental health services, and providing job training and employment opportunities. It also involves addressing the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty and lack of affordable housing. There are many organizations and government programs that are working to address the issue of homelessness, but there is still much work to be done.

There are a variety of organizations and government agencies working to address homelessness in the United States. These include local and state governments, non-profit organizations, and faith-based groups. Some of the initiatives and solutions that have been proposed include increasing funding for affordable housing, expanding access to mental health and substance abuse treatment, and providing supportive services such as job training and healthcare.

The growing trend of homelessness in the United States is a serious problem that affects individuals, families, and communities. It is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive and coordinated response from government, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. We must work together to provide housing, healthcare, and support to those who are experiencing homelessness, while also addressing the underlying causes of poverty and inequality. By taking action and working together, we can create a society where everyone has access to safe and affordable housing, healthcare, and the opportunity to thrive.

A.P. Ewen volunteers regularly at http://betweenbridges.org/

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Ambassador Professor

Introduction Have you ever heard of the fascinating profession of an Ambassador Professor? It's a unique role where one person takes on the responsibilities of both a diplomatic ambassador and a university professor. In this capacity, they represent their country as an official envoy while also engaging in academic and educational pursuits. Imagine being able to balance the demands of international diplomacy and the world of academia simultaneously. That's the life of an Ambassador Professor! People Don't Know The value of Ambassador Professors may not be evident to everyone due to several factors that hinder their recognition: 1. Lack of Awareness: Not everyone knows what an Ambassador Professor does. The combination of diplomatic duties with academia is not common knowledge outside these circles. As a result, people may not grasp the importance of this role. 2. Limited Visibility: Ambassador Professors work behind the scenes, often unnoticed by the public eye. Their contr...
Post a Comment
Read more

Courage and Determination - A Chapel in the Making at Enterprise College

  RE : Courage and Determination A Chapel in the Making at Enterprise College To Whom It May Concern & to our Global Partners  Life in international communities and global business is full of unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes we are presented with unexpected challenges that we did not anticipate or desire. However, it is important to remember that these challenges can also present opportunities for growth and development. Enterprise College has announced a Christian-based initiative to support an international effort to provide Asian and Middle Eastern communities with a Christian faith-based experience. This announcement comes in response to recent events that occurred on Friday, March 24, 2023, which have highlighted the need for greater support and understanding of different religious and cultural traditions .  The initiative aims to promote greater understanding and acceptance of Christianity, particularly within communities where it may not be widely pra...
Post a Comment
Read more

Impact of Illegal Border Crossings from Mexico to the United States

Impact of Illegal Border Crossings from Mexico to the United States The issue of illegal border crossings from Mexico to the United States is an issue that has been heavily debated in recent times. This essay will explore the economic, social and political impact of illegal border crossings from Mexico to the United States. It will analyze the implications of this phenomenon and explore how it has shaped the United States in the past and how it will shape it in the future. According to PM Orrenius’s research in the Economic and Financial Review-Federal Reserve (2001), illegal border crossings from Mexico to the United States has had a profound economic impact on both countries. In the US, illegal immigrants are typically concentrated in lower-wage occupations, and are less likely to be unionized than native-born workers. This has resulted in a decrease in wages for some American workers, particularly those in the same industries as undocumented workers. On the other hand, the influx of...
Post a Comment
Read more