Title: Factors contributing to Homelessness | Homeless Resource Network
Headings: Factors contributing to Homelessness
Factors contributing to Homelessness
Content: Thus, contrary to popular opinion, welfare does not provide relief from poverty. Divorce – Divorce often leaves one of the spouses homeless. Most often it’s the father, but sometimes it’s the mother and children or everyone involved. Domestic Violence – Battered women who live in poverty are often forced to choose between abusive relationships and homelessness. Drug and Alcohol related problems – Rates of alcohol and drug abuse are disproportionately high among the population without homes. Illness – For families and individuals struggling to pay the rent, a serious illness or disability can start a downward spiral into homelessness, beginning with a lost job, depletion of savings to pay for care, and eventual eviction. Job loss – No income to pay rent. Lack of affordable housing- The lack of affordable housing has lead to high rent burdens (rents which absorb a high proportion of income), overcrowding, and substandard housing. Lack of child support – In families where child support is ordered but not paid, the decrease in income can lead to an inability to pay rent, utilities, or both. Low wages – Declining wages have put housing out of reach for many workers: