The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) defines the homeless in 4 categories: 1) individuals or families not having a fixed, regular or adequate night time residence or who sleep in shelters or public places not designed for overnight accommodations, 2) individuals or families who will lose their housing within 14 days if they have no subsequent residence identified, 3) unaccompanied youth or families with children who have moved more than 2 times during the last 60 days, 4) individuals or families that are fleeing domestic violence, dating violence or stalking if they have no other residence. This does not consider those individuals or families that move in with relatives or friends because of loss of housing. Who do you know who would fit into any of these categories?
In Chicago, the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, estimates that there are between 100,000 and 160,000 people who are homeless during the course of a year. In Lancaster, PA, Tabor Community Services estimates that there are over 600 people who are homeless on any given day. Why do you think people are homeless? Is it their fault? Is it their choice? Are there other forces at work that can push people from secure housing? If so, what are those forces?
According to the National Coalition For the Homeless, poverty and homelessness are inextricably linked. A growing number of people simply cannot afford to live in a house or apartment. A depressed job market only makes the problem worse. See http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/16/affordable-rentals_n_1282519.html.
What would happen to your housing if you suddenly lost your job, experienced a catastrophic illness or experienced divorce or the death of a wage earning spouse? How would you respond if someone assumed your housing problems were your fault?
Tongue on Fire 