Structural Factors Of Homelessness

There is a degree to which individual factors play the most decisive role in contributing to homelessness; however, there is a main structural factor that contributes to homelessness and it is the economy. Even though capitalist love part-time workers, they are creating a risk for them to become homeless. Those who work part time have to work twice as hard as a full time worker to make ends meet and in some cases fall behind on their bills in order to have their basic needs met. However, what is needed the most is housing and housing is expensive. An estimated amount for an apartment could be between 800 and 1,000 dollars. In addition, most apartments require a down payment and the first month’s rent, as well as over a period time the rent can increase. For a minimum wage worker who earns less and is more likely to get their hour cut rather than a full time worker won’t be
Smith stated, “Even though I waited to be in my 40’s to become homeless, this place has helped me regain my life. I was able to get off drugs, I got my teeth fixed, I was able to find work, and find affordable housing next to my daughters’ school.” The biggest impact the shelter has on the community is the hot three meals every day. Just like families, the community is to sign in when receiving food. On February 5th, the community sign in sheet had a total number of 40 people listed who signed in and that was considered a large number; however, any other day it would be between 15 and 25. Among the community population are young men from the Mission of Kern County. Adam Carter stated, “My friends are from the Mission of Kern and we come here for the food. . The food is better here than at the Mission. This shelter gives out late plates at the mission if you’re late you are lucky enough to get a doughnut. The shelter is both beneficial for their residents and the