Homelessness: The Impact on Our Community
Autumn has arrived, the nights are getting colder and the people that are homeless are dreading it. Biting cold winter, rain and nowhere to go, something that we just should not be seeing in the wealthy western world. However, when we think of homelessness, we often picture people living on the streets, in tents, or in their cars. While this is certainly one face of homelessness, it is not the only one. There are also families who are homeless, couch-surfing from place to place or living in transitional housing. Children who are considered homeless may be living in any of these situations, as well as in foster care or group homes.
The Causes of Homelessness
There are many factors that can contribute to homelessness. These include but are not limited to: education, or lack of education, lack of affordable housing, domestic violence, job loss, mental illness especially during and after lockdown, and unfortunately of course substance abuse as a result of some of these points. Often, it is a combination of factors that leads to someone becoming homeless. For example, a family may lose their home due to financial difficulties caused by a job loss and the huge cost of living crisis. This can then lead to mental health issues, and substance abuse as the family tries to cope with their situation. Once they are entrenched in this cycle, it can be very difficult to break out of it.
The Impact of Homelessness on Our Community
Homelessness doesn't just affect those who are experiencing it; it also has an impact on our entire community. Crime rates potentially increase. People may steal food or clothing, beg for money, or deal drugs. This creates an unsafe environment for everyone in the community.
In addition, homeless people might need emergency services such as police and ambulance services more than those who have homes. This puts a strain on these already underfunded services. And finally, anyone who see homeless encampments or individuals begging for money may feel less safe and less likely to visit the area again.
Help Us by Donating Today
Yes-Its-possible.org is working hard to empower the homeless to be able to support themselves again! But we can't do it alone. We need your help. Head over to our website and donate to the cause. https://www.yes-its-possible.org/support-us
Conclusion:
Homelessness is a complex issue with no easy solutions. It affects us all, even if we don't realize it. By understanding the causes and effects of homelessness, we can begin to make changes at both the individual and societal level that will help reduce its incidence and mitigate its impact on our community as a whole.