Helping the Homeless
Homeless is an adjective describing people who lack a fixed, regular nighttime residence. The word can also describe someone who stays in a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a dwelling (such as an abandoned building or a car). Homelessness is often considered a condition of poverty, but it is not synonymous with poverty. People can become homeless for a variety of reasons, including lack of affordable housing and unemployment. They can also slip into homelessness for a short period after losing their job due to illness or natural disasters. Other causes include a change in financial or personal circumstances and a reduction in the availability of government benefits, such as food stamps or Supplemental Security Income.
People who experience homelessness are sometimes stigmatized, but this can have a negative impact on their lives and health. For example, the term may make people less likely to seek services for mental illness or substance use disorders. It can also cause employers to reject applications for employment because they think the applicant is unreliable. People experiencing homelessness are at greater risk for violence, disease, and exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Although there are many ways to help people who are homeless, the most effective way is to work with local organizations that provide housing and support services. These organizations can help individuals find jobs, connect with treatment providers, and access medical and mental health care. They can also refer people to shelters, where they can get meals and showers.
The number of people who are homeless is on the rise, partly because the housing crisis has worsened and the cost of living has risen. In 2023, a national count found 653,104 homeless people on a single night, the highest number since 2007. A big part of the problem is the lack of affordable housing. The median rent in the United States is now over $1,800 a month. For some families, that’s more than they can afford.
When the economy slows down, more and more people lose their jobs and may be evicted from their homes. That’s why it is important for everyone to keep an eye on their local economy and be ready to act if they see signs of a recession.
One of the easiest things to do is to donate clothing items to homeless people. Some of the most needed items are hats, scarves, gloves, long and short-sleeved shirts, underpants, socks, and shoes. In the winter, it is especially important to donate warm clothes like sweaters and jackets. Donate children’s clothing that your kids have outgrown, as well. Many homeless families have young children, so they need child sizes. Other needed items are hygiene products, such as shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and mouthwash. You can also contribute nonperishable foods, such as canned soups and vegetables, beans, and canned fruit.