Causes

Homelessness can happen for a variety of overlapping causes.

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Homelessness is present in urban, suburban, and rural areas across the country. However, large cities carry the heaviest burden – almost half of all homeless people are found in the nation’s 50 largest cities. California, New York, Florida, Texas, and Washington have among the highest homeless counts.

Homelessness is a human tragedy that impacts individuals, families, and communities. While major policy changes are needed to address root causes, ordinary citizens can still make a meaningful difference in small but impactful ways. By donating, volunteering, raising awareness, and showing compassion to our fellow humans in need, we can bring hope and help create a society where everyone has a place to call home.

 

Some key factors that can lead to or contribute to homelessness include:

Economic Factors

Poverty, unemployment, foreclosures, and evictions can make it incredibly difficult for people to afford housing. The rising costs of rent, lack of affordable housing, and low wages make housing unaffordable for many, especially in urban areas.

Mental Illness & Substance Abuse

Untreated mental illness and addictions make it challenging to maintain housing and employment. Nearly a quarter of homeless have a severe mental illness, and two-thirds have a substance abuse disorder. Without proper treatment and support, their conditions spiraled into homelessness.

Domestic Violence

Abuse at home is a common experience for homeless women. To escape the violence, many are forced to leave their homes abruptly with nowhere to go.

Incarceration

 Previously incarcerated individuals can face difficulties finding employment and housing due to stigmas. Without a steady income or record of rental history, it’s nearly impossible to secure housing.

Aging Out of Foster Care

 Youth who age out of foster care at 18 often lack the resources or support needed to transition to independent living. Without the skills or ability to afford housing, many end up homeless.

Medical crises

The high costs of medical care and illnesses can bankrupt individuals and families, making them unable to keep up with bills or rent and resulting in homelessness.

Natural Disasters

Hurricanes, tornados, fires, and floods destroy homes, displacing residents into homelessness. Low-income individuals lack the resources to recover.