The Prevention Of Homelessness In The United States

The homeless population in the United States is high and there are a lot of ways we can help them. “In January 2015, 564,708 people were homeless on a given night in the United States.” (National Alliance to End Homelessness) Homelessness is caused by many things such as; poverty, unemployment, lack of affordable housing, poor physical or mental health, drug and alcohol abuse, gambling, and domestic violence. (The Salvation Army) These days, the homeless community consists of whole families, teens and youth, and veterans. There are also many dangers of homelessness such as hunger and nutrition, skin and foot problems, mental health issues, infectious diseases, mortality, and unintentionally injuries (Home).
“Typically, families become homeless as a result of some unforeseen financial crisis - a medical emergency, a car accident, a death in the family - that prevents them from being able to hold on to housing.” (National Alliance to End Homelessness) Families have difficulties coming out of homelessness at a quick pase. Normally homeless families need “rent assistance, housing placement services, job assistance, and other short-term, one-time services” in order to return to security and safety.
Some veterans also suffer from homelessness, usually caused by war-related injuries.
Many of them find it hard to readjust to real life for reasons such as: physical disability, mental anguish, and post-traumatic stress. “Difficulties readjusting can give rise to dangerous behaviors, including addiction, abuse, and violence, which, coupled with the difficulties, can lead to homelessness” (National Alliance to End Homelessness). There are a few ways to prevent the risk of veterans experiencing homelessness such as job placement services, medical services, and housing assistance (National Alliance to End
Homelessness). One of the first things to do to help the homeless is to understand their situation and get to know them. “A homeless person may be someone who lost their job, a runaway child, or someone with a mental illness. One of the first steps in helping people is to see them as individuals and to find out what they need. Notice them; talk to them. Most are starved for attention.” (Justgive.org) Not all homeless people are bad people. Even if you think they might possibly be unworthy of help, just give them something to eat and drink instead of money.
Another thing we could do to help out with the homeless community would be to volunteer at a shelter. Homeless shelters depend on the work and help of volunteers. Volunteers do things such as sign people in, serve meals, and some even help the homeless learn where to get social services. “For the homeless, a shelter can be as little as a place to sleep out of the rain or as much as a step forward to self-sufficiency.” (Justgive.org)
In conclusion, there are ways to help out the homeless and get them back on their feet. I think the most surprising thing that I have learned while researching this topic would be the fact that many veterans are a part of the homeless community. I would warn the class of 2018 to keep their life on track so they don’t end up homeless. I would also recommend them to help out the homeless every once in awhile.