The homeless crisis is not only costly for individuals, but also for society as a whole.
A study by the National Alliance to End Homelessness found that the cost of homelessness to taxpayers is approximately $40,000 per year. This includes the cost of emergency services, healthcare, and incarceration.
by David Stone
The cost of homelessness
Homeless individuals are more likely to suffer from chronic health conditions, mental illness, and addiction. As a result, they often require more expensive and intensive care than those who have a place to call home.
The cost of homelessness is thus both financial and human. It takes a toll on those who suffer from it, as well as on our society as a whole.
The causes
Homelessness is often caused by a lack of affordable housing. Low-income renters may spend most of their income on rent, leaving them little money for other necessities.
If they fall behind on rent, they may be evicted and forced to live on the streets.
It can also be caused by job loss or medical bills. Without a steady income, people can’t afford rent and wind up homeless.
Mental illness is another common cause of homelessness. People who suffer from mental illness may have a hard time keeping a job or maintaining stable housing.
They may also be unable to access mental health services needed for a stable lifestyle.
Sadly, domestic violence leads to homelessness. Victims of domestic violence may have to leave their homes to escape their abuser and may end up living in shelters or on the streets.
Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness among women and children.
What can be done to end the homeless crisis?
As anyone who has ever been homeless knows, it is an incredibly difficult experience. Not only do you have to worry about where you will sleep and how you will keep warm, but you also have to worry about where your next meal will come from.
And all of this is happening while you are dealing with the constant stress of not knowing what will happen tomorrow.
Fortunately, there are things that can be done to end homelessness.
By working with organizations that provide housing and food, as well as job training and other services, we can help people get back on their feet and end the cycle of homelessness.
But we must do more. We need to end the stigma around mental health and addiction so that people can get the help they need.
We need to create more affordable housing options. And we need to make sure that everyone has access to quality healthcare. Working together, we can end homelessness.
How you can help homeless people in your community
Immediately, there are ways that you can help homeless people in your community.
One way is to donate money or food to local shelters or food banks. You can also volunteer your time at a shelter or food bank.
You can also donate clothes or other items to local organizations that help the homeless. Or raise awareness about homelessness by talking to friends and family about the issue, or by writing letters to government officials.
Taking action, you can make a difference in the lives of homeless people in your community.
We Can Afford to End the Homeless Crisis. Can We Afford Not To?
Ending homelessness is a complex challenge, but it’s one we can and must overcome.
Together, we can make sure that everyone has a place to call home.
