Why does homelessness exist?
Sometimes the cause of homelessness cannot be pinned down to one particular cause, but rather a mix of circumstances in someone’s life.
The Six Common Causes of Homelessness We See Most Often
1
Abuse
More than 75% of men experiencing homelessness report having been exposed to physical, sexual or emotional abuse in their life.
2
Working, but in Poverty
Some people experiencing homelessness may have a job, but it might be low paying, leaving them unable to afford things that they need like housing and food. Then evictions drive them into our doors seeking help.
3
Unemployment
With layoffs and workplace discrimination still actively existing in today’s society, not everyone is lucky enough to find a secure place in the workforce. This sudden loss of income can force someone to stop paying their rent, which can then turn into eviction and homelessness.
4
Lack of Affordable Housing
There’s a clear connection between the lack of affordable places to live and the number of people living on the streets. The average one-bedroom apartment in Philly is about $1,040 per month. Now imagine trying to find a place to live when the minimum wage is only $7.25 an hour; you would need to work 89 hours per week.
5
Illness and Disability
Illnesses and disabilities do not occur by choice, and the repercussions of enduring such traumatic circumstances too often cause homelessness. Chronic illness and disability prevent someone from holding a job, and without a job, one has no means of steady income. Without a steady income, how is one able to afford somewhere to call home? How is one able to afford something to eat? Then there are those medical bills that one has accrued.
6
Substance Abuse
We intentionally list this cause as last, because the overall stereotype often here in Philadelphia is that someone experiencing homelessness is addicted to drugs. Yes, that still is a major cause and contributor, but it does NOT represent all whom we serve daily. Quite often, homelessness itself is the cause of substance abuse, as one uses drugs to self-medicate during winter weather or depression while experiencing homelessness. Therefore, drug addiction is merely the symptom of the larger issue; and finding housing stability can solve that.
Homelessness is a temporary circumstance, not a permanent condition.
