The unwanted: part 2

Homelessness has always been a problem. It only seems to get worse as time goes by. There are many factors as to what causes homelessness. Mental illnesses, drug abuse, and financial inestability are just a few of these contributing factors to homelessness. About 16% of the single adult homeless population suffers from some form of severe and persistent mental illness (U.S. Conference of Mayors,2005). According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human services 2003 report,the majority of mentally ill patients can live in the community with the proper supportive housing options. Unfortunately, due to the decline in public assistance, many mentally ill homeless adults cannot afford a steady home. Many people assume that the government helps the mentally ill in every aspect. Little do we know to what extent. Financial inestability is also a major contributor to homelessness. Many people are frequently unable to pay for housing, food, healthcare, childcare, and education. Some difficult choices have to be made when the limited resources only cover some of these. Housing is one of the major necessities that takes a high portion of the income. In addition if jobs do not offer healthcare benefits, that can also cause a downfall to homelessness. As the National Coalition for the Homeless 2007 article stated "The average American is only an illness, accident or paycheck away from being homeless".

Resources: http://www.nationalhomeless.org
National Coalition for the Homeless

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

http://usmayors.org/uscm/home.asp.
U.S. Conference of Mayors