Homelessness Crisis in Contemporary Society

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Updated: Dec 07, 2024
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Category:Homelessness
Date added
2019/03/08
Pages:  2
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Far from simple choices and personal failings, the roots of homelessness twist deep into society's foundations, tangling through systems and circumstances beyond individual control. It is a multifaceted social problem rooted in systemic issues such as poverty, unemployment, and the lack of affordable housing. Many individuals who find themselves without a home come from nurturing families and have, at some point, been employed and housed. However, economic and social challenges often push them toward making life choices that culminate in homelessness.

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Historically, families provided a safety net for their members facing economic or health-related issues, but today, societal dynamics have shifted. Many families are now less willing to support their struggling relatives, often opting to judge rather than help. This critical shift highlights the need for society to re-evaluate its approach to homelessness.

Innovative Solutions: Housing First and Beyond

Addressing homelessness requires innovative solutions that go beyond conventional methods. One such approach is the "Housing First" model implemented by the state of Utah. Unlike traditional models that require individuals to resolve their underlying issues before securing permanent housing, the Housing First initiative provides stable homes first. This method acknowledges that it is exceptionally challenging for people to address personal issues like addiction or mental health concerns while living in unstable conditions, such as shelters or on the streets. According to an article from *The New Yorker* titled "Home Free," the old model assumed that solving personal issues was a prerequisite for obtaining permanent housing (Surowiecki, 2017). However, the Housing First model suggests that stable living conditions themselves can catalyze positive change, providing individuals with a sense of stability and motivation to overcome their challenges. This shift in strategy has proven not only humane but also economically sensible.

The economic benefits of the Housing First approach are significant. The traditional methods of managing homelessness, which include costs associated with shelters, emergency room visits, and law enforcement, result in substantial financial burdens on government resources. The Housing First model, by contrast, has demonstrated long-term savings for the government. As Surowiecki (2017) notes, over time, this approach has proven effective in reducing government expenditure. By providing homes first, the government can reduce the ancillary costs associated with homelessness, ultimately benefiting both the individuals in need and the broader community.

Engagement and Empowerment: The Role of Community

While providing housing is a critical first step, empowering homeless individuals through community engagement is equally important. An inspiring example of this is the initiative by Peter Resnik, a prominent attorney, who engaged with homeless individuals through a book club. Resnik's interaction with two homeless men, Rob and Chris, revealed Chris's passion for reading, leading Resnik to provide him a book. This simple act of kindness blossomed into a book club that became a platform for homeless individuals to share their thoughts on literature and life experiences. An article from WBUR News titled "A Book Club Whose Best Stories Aren’t Written Down" emphasizes that the book discussions often lead to sharing personal stories (Tobin, 2010). The club provides a space where members feel their opinions matter, offering them a sense of dignity and belonging, which is often stripped away in the harsh realities of homelessness.

Such initiatives underline the importance of giving homeless individuals a voice and an opportunity to connect with others. It humanizes their plight and fosters a sense of community, which can be profoundly uplifting. By facilitating spaces where the homeless feel heard and respected, society can help restore their self-worth and encourage them to re-engage in social and economic activities.

A Holistic Approach to Tackling Homelessness

In conclusion, the Housing First approach, complemented by community initiatives like the book club, offers a holistic strategy to tackle homelessness. These methods not only provide essential housing but also empower individuals by giving them a platform to be heard. By addressing both the physical and emotional needs of homeless individuals, these strategies not only improve their quality of life but also foster a more inclusive society. By embracing such comprehensive approaches, we can work towards a future where homelessness is not an insurmountable problem but a challenge that can be effectively addressed with compassion and innovation.

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Homelessness Crisis in Contemporary Society. (2019, Mar 08). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/homelessness-is-not-a-choice/