The Cost of Ignoring Homelessness

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The Cost of Ignoring Homelessness



Addressing the homeless situation in Portland is morally imperative as well as economically and socially beneficial to both individuals and communities. By investing in prevention and support programs, as a community, we can approach homelessness in a way that will help Portland as a whole.


Studies have shown that homeless people, when compared with those who have a home, are associated with more emergency room visits, greater inpatient admissions, and longer hospital stays (DuBois). The cost for these services ends up falling onto the City and taxpayers, hurting the economy (DuBois). 


Not only does homelessness impact the economy but also affects society on a social level. Many homeless individuals experience harsh weather conditions, lack of medical care, and violence. People experiencing homelessness have a 60% greater mortality risk when compared with housed individuals living in poverty (Chimowitz and Ruege). The risks increase if this individual is a young child or a young adult. Repeated exposure to stressful and traumatic events at a young age causes extreme emotional impacts (Chimowitz and Ruege).


Many people become homeless because they can’t afford housing, there’s a lack of job opportunities, or they aren’t receiving the proper care that they need. Setting up more social safety nets and educating the public about these resources can help address the homeless situation in Portland.


United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is one of the organizations that provides safety nets for people experiencing hardships such as housing, food, heat, utilities, and other essential needs. As a community, we can help people who are homeless or on the verge of becoming homeless by helping them get access to organizations that offer safety nets. At United Way, there is also an option to donate to those who are in need of additional assistance.



Resources


https://www.unitedway-pdx.org/safety-net 




References


Chimowitz, Hannah, and Adam Ruege. “The Costs and Harms of Homelessness.” Community Solutions, 12 Oct. 2023, community.solutions/research-posts/the-costs-and-harms-of-homelessness/. 

DuBois, Hart. “What Is the Cost of Homelessness?” Father Joe’s Villages, 9 Mar. 2022, my.neighbor.org/what-is-the-cost-of-homelessness/#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20National%20Alliance,%2435%2C000%20a%20year%20(2016). 

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