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.
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