What Causes Homelessness?

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There are many reasons one might find themselves without a place to call home. Often times people have the misconception that alcohol and drug abuse are the root causes of homelessness. This generally is not the case. people find themselves living without a home due to a multitude of factors. The leading cause of homelessness is due to economic reasons. Reasons such as lack of affordable housing or lack of employment opportunities. 

Economics aside, there are often times even deeper roots that cause homelessness. Many homeless people have some kind of trauma, mental illness, or family conflict. For example, 84% of homeless women have experienced severe physical or sexual abuse at some point in their lives and as a result, domestic violence is the leading cause of homelessness in women. These traumatic experiences cause people to have to leave their current situation and find a new life somewhere else. Unfortunately, it is very hard in this world to find refuge when you don't have anything to begin with. This is why many people find themselves on the streets with nowhere to go. 

Alcohol and drug abuse do play a role in homelessness, but it does not seem to be the cause in many cases. That being said, many unhoused people turn to drugs and alcohol because of the stresses of living on the streets. It is also prevalent among those who are homeless because of the traumas or mental illnesses that occurred prior to being homeless. It is estimated that 38% of homeless people are dependent on alcohol and 26% abuse other drugs. These addictions that are developed should be viewed as ilnesses. Treatment and counseling should be provided to anybody seeking help as this will aid the homeless in leading productive lives and help them eventually find their way off the streets. 

To learn more and donate to help solve the homelessness crisis visit:

Portland Rescue Mission

Lotus Campaign

Substance Abuse & Homelessness




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