In the shadows of American cities, homelessness silently persists, touching the lives of millions. Let’s uncover the causes of the crisis, its impact, and what it means for our country. 

There are many reasons why homelessness is prevalent, but the main reason is the lack of affordable housing in the US, especially since home prices in the US are at an all time high since the pandemic. Other reasons for homelessness could be unsafe environments leading to substance abuse, being unable to finish school as children, untreated psychiatric disorders, and inflation being at the highest level in a generation. Roughly 58,200 Americans were experiencing homelessness in 2022. In January 2023, it was recorded to be more than 650,000.

While the issue of homelessness is undoubtedly challenging, there is hope in our collective efforts to address homelessness in America. By working together and supporting each other, we can make a real difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness, ensuring a brighter future for all.

If you are homeless or know someone who is homeless in Washington, here are resources you can call if you need help.

Aging and Long-Term Care – WA by County: 1-877-501-2233

Department of Commerce: Emergency Shelter Assistance Program: 1-360-725-4000

Washington Low Income Housing Alliance: 1-206-442-9455

(Image by David Lee on Flickr )

Sources:

https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2024/01/why-its-so-hard-to-end-homelessness-in-america/#:~:text=The%20lack%20of%20affordable%20housing,issue%20to%20Congress%20in%202007.

https://endhomelessness.org/homelessness-in-america/#:~:text=While%20families%2C%20children%2C%20and%20youth,experience%20homelessness%20are%20single%20adults.

https://www.caringworksinc.org/our-impact/community-impact/#:~:text=Homelessness%20Affects%20All%20of%20Us&text=It%20impacts%20the%20availability%20of,one%20family%20at%20a%20time.

https://unityparenting.org/homelessness-affects-the-community/

https://www.flickr.com/photos/davidjlee/39969298465