5 paragraph essay on homelessness

5 Essays About Homelessness

Around the world, people experience homelessness. According to a 2005 survey by the United Nations, 1.6 billion people lack adequate housing. The causes vary depending on the place and person. Common reasons include a lack of affordable housing, poverty, a lack of mental health services, and more. Homelessness is rooted in systemic failures that fail to protect those who are most vulnerable. Here are five essays that shine a light on the issue of homelessness:

What Would ‘Housing as a Human Right’ Look Like in California? (2020) – Molly Solomon

For some time, activists and organizations have proclaimed that housing is a human right. This essay explores what that means and that it isn’t a new idea. Housing as a human right was part of federal policy following the Great Depression. In a 1944 speech introducing what he called the “Second Bill of Rights,” President Roosevelt attempted to address poverty and income equality. The right to have a “decent home” was included in his proposals. Article 25 of the Universal Declaration also recognizes housing as a human right. It describes the right to an “adequate standard of living.” Other countries such as France and Scotland include the right to housing in their constitutions. In the US, small local governments have adopted resolutions on housing. How would it work in California?

At KQED, Molly Solomon covers housing affordability. Her stories have aired on NPR’s All Things Considered, Morning Edition, and other places. She’s won three national Edward R. Murrow awards.

“What People Get Wrong When They Try To End Homelessness” – James Abro

In his essay, James Abro explains what led up to six weeks of homelessness and his experiences helping people through social services. Following the death of his mother and eviction, Abro found himself unhoused. He describes himself as “fortunate” and feeling motivated to teach people how social services worked. However, he learned that his experience was somewhat unique. The system is complicated and those involved don’t understand homelessness. Abro believes investing in affordable housing is critical to truly ending homelessness.

James Abro is the founder of Advocate for Economic Fairness and 32 Beach Productions. He works as an advocate for homeless rights locally and nationally. Besides TalkPoverty, he contributes to Rebelle Society and is an active member of the New Jersey Coalition to End Homelessness.

“No Shelter For Some: Street-Sleepers” (2019)

This piece (by an unknown author) introduces the reader to homelessness in urban China. In the past decades, a person wouldn’t see many homeless people. This was because of strict rules on internal migration and government-supplied housing. Now, the rules have changed. People from rural areas can travel more and most urban housing is privatized. People who are homeless – known as “street-sleepers” are more visible. This essay is a good summary of the system (which includes a shift from police management of homelessness to the Ministry of Civil Affairs) and how street-sleepers are treated.

“A Window Onto An American Nightmare” (2020) – Nathan Heller

This essay from the New Yorker focuses on San Francisco’s history with homelessness, the issue’s complexities, and various efforts to address it. It also touches on how the pandemic has affected homelessness. One of the most intriguing parts of this essay is Heller’s description of becoming homeless. He says people “slide” into it, as opposed to plunging. As an example, someone could be staying with friends while looking for a job, but then the friends decide to stop helping. Maybe someone is jumping in and out of Airbnbs, looking for an apartment. Heller’s point is that the line between only needing a place to stay for a night or two and true “homelessness” is very thin.

Nathan Heller joined the New Yorker’s writing staff in 2013. He writes about technology, higher education, the Bay Area, socioeconomics, and more. He’s also a contributing editor at Vogue, a former columnist for Slate, and contributor to other publications.

“Homelessness in Ireland is at crisis point, and the vitriol shown towards homeless people is just as shocking” (2020)#- Megan Nolan

In Ireland, the housing crisis has been a big issue for years. Recently, it’s come to a head in part due to a few high-profile incidents, such as the death of a young woman in emergency accommodation. The number of children experiencing homelessness (around 4,000) has also shone a light on the severity of the issue. In this essay, Megan Nolan explores homelessness in Ireland as well as the contempt that society has for those who are unhoused.

Megan Nolan writes a column for the New Statesman. She also writes essays, criticism, and fiction. She’s from Ireland but based in London.

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About the author, emmaline soken-huberty.

Emmaline Soken-Huberty is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon. She started to become interested in human rights while attending college, eventually getting a concentration in human rights and humanitarianism. LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, and climate change are of special concern to her. In her spare time, she can be found reading or enjoying Oregon’s natural beauty with her husband and dog.

Essays About Homelessness: Top 8 Examples Plus Prompts

Everyone has heard of homeless people at some point in their lives; if you are writing essays about homelessness, read our top essay examples and prompts.

Poverty is one of the greatest evils in the world. Its effects are seen daily, from people begging on the streets to stealing to support their families. But unfortunately, one of the most prominent and upsetting diversity is homelessness. Homelessness is a significant problem in even the most developed nations, including the U.S. and Canada. Despite all the resources used to fight this issue, countries often lack the means to reduce homelessness significantly. With the proper aid, homelessness can be entirely eradicated in the future. 

If you want to write essays about homelessness, keep reading to see our essay examples and helpful writing prompts.

2. A journey with the homeless by Sujata Jena

3. i chose to be homeless: reflections on the homeless challenge by emily kvalheim, 4. my experience being homeless by scott benner, 5. what people get wrong when they try to end homelessness by james abro, 1. causes of homelessness , 2. how can homelessness be reduced, 3. mental illness and homelessness, 4. reflection on homelessness, 5. is homelessness a “personal problem”.

Are you looking for more? Check out our guide packed full of transition words for essays

1. That Homeless Man is My Brother by Megan Regnerus

“But the subtext of my friend’s statement is really Why should I give money to someone who’s lazy; who isn’t willing to work for money like I do?’ And to that I say, her opinion that people who ask for money are freeloaders who could work but choose not to, is based on assumption. It relies on the notion that the two things that shape us into able-bodied adults who can hold down a regular job, nature and nurture, are level playing fields. And they’re not.”

Regnerus writes about a friend’s claim that the homeless are “lazy,” reminding her of her homeless brother. She cites genetics and circumstance as contributing factors to homelessness. Despite the other woman being her friend, Regnerus strongly refutes her belief that the homeless are non-disabled freeloaders- they should be treated with empathy. For more, check out these articles about homelessness .

“I realize that the situation of poverty and homelessness is a huge social problem around the world. But when I meet them, I face fellow human beings, not some abstract “social problem.” The very phrase, “What would Jesus do at this scene?” haunted me.  I ventured to ask their names, age, where they came from, where they live (street, bridges, cemetery) and the reason they are on the streets. Their stories are poignant. Each one has a unique story to tell about his/her reason to be homeless, how they were forced to leave distant rural villages to live on the city streets. I tried to listen to them with empathy.”

In her essay, Jena remembers the homeless people in Manila, Philippines. She can see them beyond some “aspect of society” as human beings. She empathizes with them extensively and recalls the words of Jesus Christ about loving others, particularly the neediest.

“I, too, have not been compassionate enough, and I have allowed my prejudices to distort my view of the homeless. One woman, who sat across from me at a feeding program, talking to herself erratically, may have seemed strange to me before the Homeless Challenge. But when I really saw myself as her equal, and when I took the time to watch her get up and laugh as she danced to the music playing in the background, I thought she was beautiful. She had found her own happiness, amidst despair.”

Kvalheim details her experiences during an immersion challenge with the homeless. She recalls both the discrimination and generosity she experienced and her experiences with other homeless people. She was amazed to see how they could stay positive despite their terrible circumstances. We should be thankful for what we have and use it to help others in need. 

“As my funds dwindled, and the weather got colder, I sought shelter at Father Bill’s in Quincy Ma. When you are homeless, sometimes very small things mean a lot. A dry pair of socks, shoes without holes, a pocketful of change. You begin to realize how much you value your personal space. You begin to realize other people want space too. A lot of people have issues or have suffered in one way or another and you can see their pain. I think that there are people who for a variety of issue are chronically homeless and a larger portion of homeless are transitioning through a series of bad events.”

Benner’s essay, written for the company ArtLifting, reflects on his experience of being homeless for a brief while. Then, he and his wife grew ill, and Benner sought refuge at a homeless shelter after his company shut down. After that, he realized how his struggles were very different from those of others and the value of the more minor things he previously took for granted. Luckily, he escaped homelessness by making art with the help of ArtLifting. 

“The court denied my sister’s request and named me our mother’s legal guardian, but it appointed my sister as guardian of her property.  In 2009, when my mother passed away, my sister evicted me. The day I was scheduled to move out, I stood in a convenience store, dazed, as I stared at microwaveable meals.  These would be my new staple when I moved into the motel room. My phone rang—my sister.  She told me she needed me out of the house in a couple of hours—she was a real estate agent and a client wanted to see the house. ‘No hard feelings,’ she said.”

Similar to Benner, Abro narrates the circumstances surrounding his homelessness. After his mother’s death and a conflict with his sister led to his eviction, he ended up homeless. While his situation was unfortunate, he believes that there are many people worse off than him and that something must change to address the housing and poverty crises in America.

Top 5 Prompts On Essays about Homelessness

For your essay, it would be interesting to write about how people become homeless in the first place. Research the different causes of homelessness and elaborate on them, and be sure to provide sources such as statistics and anecdotes. 

What solutions to homelessness can you think of? In your essay, propose at least one way you think the homelessness problem can be solved or at least reduced. It must be concrete, realistic, and defensible; be sure to explain your solution well and defend its feasibility, backing up your claims with facts and logic. 

Homelessness and mental health can be linked—research into declining mental health and how homelessness can impact a person’s mental well-being. Make sure to use research data and statistics to show your findings. Conclude whether poor mental health can cause homelessness or if homelessness causes poor mental health.

You can write about what homelessness means to you in your essay. Perhaps you’ve heard stories of homeless people, or maybe you know someone who is or has been homeless. Use this essay to highly the effects of homelessness and how we can work together as a society to eradicate it.

Many say that homeless people “choose to be homeless” and are underachievers; otherwise, they would simply “get a job” and lift themselves out of poverty. Is this true? Research this topic and decide on your stance. Then, write about whether you agree with this topic for a compelling argumentative essay.

If you’re still stuck, check out our general resource of essay writing topics .

Homelessness in the United States

A comprehensive examination of the crisis of homelessness in the U.S., discussing root causes, systemic challenges, and potential solutions, while humanizing the often overlooked struggles of those affected. You can also find more related free essay samples at PapersOwl about Adolescence topic.

How it works

Homelessness is a social problem that has long plagued the United States and surrounding Countries for centuries. It is an economic and social problem that has affected people from all walks of life, including children, families, veterans, and the elderly. Kilgore (2018). States homelessness is believed to have affected an estimated amount of 2.5-3.5 million people each year in the United States alone. Recent evidence suggests economic conditions have increased the number of people affected by homelessness in the United States.

Biel, M.G., Gilhuly, D.K., Wilcox, N.A., & Jacobstein, D. (2014). Family homelessness: A deepening crises in urban communities. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 53, 12, 1247-1250. Retrieved from: https://doi.org/j.jaac.2014.08.015

Related article

Collins, C.C., D’Andrea, R., Dean, K., & Crampton, D. (2018). Service providers perspective on permanent supportive housing for families. Family in Society: The Journal of Contemporary Social Services, 97, 27

Retrieved from https://doi/10.1606/1044-3894.2016.97.27

Authors, Biel, Gilhuly, Wilcox & Jacobstien, provides a significant amount of information that addresses and support the issues of homeless families, children, and young adults, the reasons of how people become homeless, the risk factors related homelessness, as well as the challenges confronting teenagers and young adults who are living on their own. The authors explain when families are bounded and emotionally displaced from their foundational support they become homeless, causing them to live in shelters or conditions not suitable for human habitation. The authors’ data and references provided explain what they believe a model family comprises. They feel a model family consist of a single parent household usually a young mother with possibly two kids under the age of six. The authors express that about 90% of these young women were victims of violence. The references provided underpins the title and addresses the circumstances and results of homelessness with families, children, young adults, and the hazardous factors and difficulties related to homeless in the United States.

Brush, B., Gultekin, L.E., & Grim, E.G. (2016). The data dilemma in family homelessness. Journal of Healthcare for the Poor and Underserved. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 27(3), 1048-1052, Retrieved from https://dx.doi.org.ezproxy.liberty.edu/10.1353/hpu.2016/0122.

In this article, Brush, Gultekin, & Grim in their report stated that the U.S. Division of Housing and Urban Development distributed its first national profile of vagrancy in 1984, featuring the greatest of the issue over the U.S., the creation of America’s impoverished, and the degree to which asylums and programs were meeting their needs. The authors state regardless of whether more substantial ways to deal with checking the quantity of vagrant family’s growth, there is yet the matter of tending to the novel issues and conditions of families encountering vagrancy. The majority of which have stayed steady during recent decades. They believe the literature provided supports the associations between relational injury, neglect, and family vagrancy. Domestic brutality (DV), specifically, remains one of the primary sources of vagrancy and lodging precariousness for single mothers today. Families and kids encountering vagrancy and unreliable lodging have a higher than average chance of being exposed to mishandling and negligence and is prone to observe brutal actions more often than their peers. The authors state there is additional proof that unending and extreme savagery, restricted encountering groups of people, and poor collaborations with those in positions to assist or anticipate progressing lodging. However, perennial exposures of injury and viciousness show in continuous cycles of household viciousness, the improvement of injury-related wellbeing conditions, incessant lodging insecurity, family interruption, precariousness, and debilitated social networks.

Kilgore, P.E. (2013). Epidemiology of homelessness in the united states, (2013). Annals of Epidemiology, 23, 9, 594. Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.annepidem2013.06.070

This article provides references that articulate and support of the causes and effects of incidence, distribution and possible control of homelessness in the United States. The information provided a clear understanding of how the author believes that homelessness has affected approximately 2.5-3.5 million have expanded the number of people in the United States alone. However, recent proof has indicated that financial stipulations have expanded the number of individuals affected by homelessness. The objective of her analysis was to d escribe trends in homelessness and discuss the methodological methods to evaluate the comorbidity associated with homelessness. Considering the reviewed information in 2009, 63% of American people were affected by homelessness, and an approximate 62% of those affected lived in safe-houses with the the title as well as the methodological approaches evaluating homelessness in the United States.

Mago, V.K., Morden, H.K., Fritz, C., Wu, T., Namezi, S., Geranmayeh, P., Chattopadhyay, R., & Dabbaghian, V. (2013). Analyzing the impact of social factors on homelessness: A Fuzzy Cognitive Map approach. BMC Medical Informative and Decision Making, 13,94, Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6947-13-94

Through utilizing the fuzzy cognitive map, the authors were able to permit scientists to build digital worlds in which some of the composite and interdependent concepts of a framework captured and their intercommunication or causal relationships modeled. The FCM is a system utilized for demonstrating reliance between ideas and reality. Which was accomplished graphically speaking to the causal thinking connections between vague or un-fresh ideas? Through system examination of the fuzzy cognitive map, the authors were able to verify that education applies the most power in the model and subsequently impacts the action and multifaceted nature of a social issue, for example, homelessness. They found the system worked by displaying the perplexing social arrangement of homelessness represented the reality for the example situation created. The analysis affirmed the system worked and investigated peer-reviewed, academic literature is a responsible establishment at which point to construct the model.

Martin, E.J. (2015). Affordable housing, homelessness, and mental health: What health care policy needs to address.

Journal of Health and Human Services Administration, 38,1,67-68. Retrieved from: https://www.jstor.org/stable/24459676

Throughout this article Martin, provided a significant amount of compelling references that links affordable housing, homelessness, poverty, mental health, and health care to the United States economic crisis that caused many of Americans to become homeless. These references linked and provided detailed information on the, policies, issues and reasons of how many American citizens failed into economic hardship. A hardship that left many families, children, individuals, and veterans homeless. The article references give detailed descriptions of how each of these policies, issues and causes of poverty, affordable housing, homelessness, mental health, and health care connects and relates to one another. Giving a clear and concise understanding of the articles title, policies, causes and effects of the economic crisis that plagued the American people.

Morton, M.H., Dworsky, A., Matiadho, J.L., Curry, S.R., Schlueter, D., Chavez, R., & Farrell, A. F (2018). Prevalence and correlates of youth homelessness in the United States. Journal of Adolescent Health, 62(1), 14-21, Elsevier Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth2017.10.006.

In this article, the authors address the prevalence and incidence of youth homelessness. The pervasiveness and frequency of youth vagrancy uncover a unique requirement for aversion and youth-driven frameworks and administration, and besides, methodologies to address the unbalance dangers of specific subpopulations. By utilizing this type of broad-based telephone review, the authors requested family units and individual reports on various kinds of youth vagrancy. They were able to solicit families and own reviews on adolescent homelessness. They accumulated reviews on youth 13-17 in ages and young adults 18-25, and a follow-up review with a subsample of (n=150), supplied additional records on formative experiences and enabled adjustments for inclusion errors. The results showed predominance rates were comparative crosswise over rural and nonrural provinces. A higher danger of vagrancy was among youthful parents, black, Hispanics, and lesbians, gays, promiscuous, or transgender (LGBT) youth, and the individuals who did not finish their education. Occurrence rates were about half as high as predominance rates.

Schinka, J.A., Leventhal, K.C., Lapcevic, W.A., & Casey, R. (2018). Mortality and cause of death in younger homeless veterans. Public Health Report, 133(2), 177-181. Retrieved from https://eprozy.liberty.edu/10.1177/0033354918755709.

In this article, the authors investigated the records of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs on homelessness and health care. They were able to identify the status of 23,898 homeless veterans living’ opposed to 65,198 non-veterans ages 30-54, from 2003-2004. To determine the status of their survival, the National Death Index used for the statistical purpose of comparing the survival rates and causes of death for the two groups during a ten year follow up review. The National Death Index is a database of death records on the document in state vital statistics offices for the descriptive purposes in medicinal and wellbeing research. In their findings, they found young and moderately aged homeless veterans had a higher death rate than non- homeless veterans. Their results showed vagrancy considerately increased 34.9 % opposed to 18.2 mortality rate in non-homeless veterans, with the lowest survival rate at 58% among older homeless veterans age 60.1%.

Somerville, P, (2013). Understanding homelessness. Housing, Theory, and Society, 30(4), 384-415, Retrieved from https://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14036096.2012.756096.

In an article, Somerville, states homelessness is no longer just a matter of lack of shelter or residence. It entails deprivation throughout a range of different dimensions and defined with references to the manner in which changing the structural stipulations influence most severely upon precise groups, either because of a natural role of fundamental drawbacks or because of some additional vulnerability that renders individuals ill-equipped to cope with these changes. Homeless people face risk because of personal environment, health care factors, and because of these issues homeless people have a higher risk for medical treatment of substance abuse disorders psychological illness, and low social support. Which are all contributing factors for readmission due to the environmental health challenges they face?

Tsai, J. & Rosenheck, R.A; (2015). Risk Factors for Homelessness Among US Veterans, Epidemiologic Reviews, Volume 37, Issue 1, 1 January 2015, Pages 177″195

Retrieved from https://doi.org.ezproxy.liberty.edu/10.1093/epirev/mxu004. After the Civil War, homelessness has always been a significant issue in the United States especially over the last 30 years. It is a social issue that has impacted the lives of many United States veterans for decades. In this article, the authors utilized a comparative study of homeless veterans opposed to the non-homeless veteran to identify the risk factors associated with vagrancy amongst veterans in America. In their studies, they found several risk factors across both thorough and less thorough investigations. They found the most sever to be Substance abuse disorders and psychological illnesses to be the most common factors of the 15 the studies, and poverty, low income. And a lack of family, friends, and community support to be less severe. In this article, the authors provided a significant amount of proof to support their findings as well as their title.

Tyler, K.A. & Schmitz, R.M. (2013). Family histories and multiple transitions among homeless young adults: Pathways to homelessness. Children and Youth Services Review, 35(10), 1719-1726. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1016/jchildyouth.2013.07.014

Related cite https://www.deepdyve.com/lp/elsevier/family-histories-and-multiple-transsitions-among-homeless-young-adults-V6GJUJqhWy

In a longitudinal research project led by Tyler & Schmitz, they aimed to discover and understand the reasons why young people become homeless. In their study, they researched and followed 40 homeless young adults ages 19-21, for three years with follow up meeting led at three-month interims. In their finding, three vital topics rose, topics that were important for understanding the pathways of young adults to vagrancy. The first topic addressed was the early history of the family which gives the catalyst to why numerous young people chose to leave home looking for other living conditions and along these lines helped sort and purpose their different transitions. The second topic discussed the kinds of transitions and gives explanations behind why young people leave home. The third topic investigate the different pathways to vagrancy that young people encounter. The data provided supported the authors title and the information provide was clear and concise.

Homelessness is a social concern that has changed the lives of millions of innocent children, causing them to live without food and shelter that we all at one time or another have taken for granted. Biel, Gilhuly, Wilcox & Jacobstein, (2010). States about 1.6 million kids in the United States will encounter vagrancy, and families at present make up more than 33% of the destitute populate. There are numerous reasons why individuals turned out to be destitute, an absence of pay is by all accounts one of the significant reasons for vagrancy in the United States. Martin, (2015). States the United States economic emergencies have significantly influenced the lives of numerous individuals in the United States alone and has brought pay decrease, work cutbacks, liquidations, and soring dispossessions, that has dived numerous people and families into serious monetary hardship, especially those in low pay networks. Homelessness is a painful reality that has affected many individuals in the United States, regardless of race, age, gender, or religious belief, and has plagued the United States citizens for many centuries. However, scientists contend in spite of programs that aim to give brief and transitional safe haven to vagrancy’s, there should be an expansion in open perpetual lodging and in government lodging assets.

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Essay On Homelessness | Exploring the Causes and Effects

This article discusses the issue of homelessness and its impact on individuals and society. It covers topics such as the causes and effects of homelessness, as well as efforts to reduce homelessness and support the homeless.

Table of Contents

Read 5+ Essays About Homelessness

1. brief essay in 500 words.

Homelessness refers to the condition of individuals or families who lack a fixed and regular residence and are unable to secure adequate housing. It is a complex social problem that affects people of all ages, races, and ethnicity, and it is caused by a combination of factors, including poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental health and substance abuse issues, and unemployment.

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The effects of homelessness are far-reaching and devastating. Homeless individuals and families often face harsh living conditions, such as exposure to the elements, lack of access to basic necessities such as food and sanitation, and a higher risk of violence and victimization. Homelessness also has a significant impact on physical and mental health, leading to conditions such as malnutrition, respiratory infections, and mental health disorders.

Homelessness also has a significant impact on communities. It is associated with increased crime and public health issues, as well as a strain on social services and emergency services. Homelessness also perpetuates cycles of poverty and social exclusion, making it difficult for individuals and families to escape homelessness and improve their circumstances.

There are a variety of interventions that have been proposed to address homelessness. These include increasing the availability of affordable housing, providing financial assistance and support services to low-income individuals and families, and addressing the underlying causes of homelessness such as mental health and substance abuse issues, poverty and unemployment.

1. Short Argumentative Essay on Homelessness: In 100 words

Homelessness is a growing problem in many countries, and it has become a hot topic for debate. While some people believe that homelessness is a result of personal choices and lack of effort, others argue that it is a complex issue with multiple underlying causes such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, and mental health problems. The government has a responsibility to provide support and resources to help the homeless, but the private sector also has a role to play in addressing this issue.

2. Short Persuasive Essay on Homelessness: In 100 Words

Homelessness is not just a problem for the homeless individuals, but it also has a significant impact on society as a whole. It is unacceptable that in a wealthy nation like ours, so many people are living on the streets with no access to basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare. We must come together as a community to provide support and resources to help the homeless. This can be achieved through government funding, private sector partnerships, and individual donations. By working together, we can help reduce homelessness and improve the lives of those affected by this crisis.

3. Causes and Effects Essay on Homelessness: In 150 Words

Homelessness is a complex issue with multiple underlying causes such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental health problems, and unemployment. These factors can lead to a vicious cycle of homelessness, as individuals struggle to find stable housing and employment. The effects of homelessness are far-reaching and include increased risk of physical and mental health problems, social isolation, and a decreased quality of life. Addressing the root causes of homelessness is crucial to effectively reducing its impact on individuals and society.

3. Short Essay on Homelessness in America: in 150 Words

Homelessness is a growing problem in America, with an estimated 567,715 people experiencing homelessness on a single night in 2020. The root causes of homelessness in America are complex and include poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental health problems, and addiction. To effectively address homelessness in America, it is necessary to implement a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes and provides support and resources to the homeless. This can include government funding, private sector partnerships, and individual efforts to support local organizations working to reduce homelessness.

4. Short Essay on Homelessness in Australia: In 120 words

Homelessness is a significant issue in Australia, with an estimated 116,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night. The root causes of homelessness in Australia include poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental health problems, and family violence. The government and private sector have a responsibility to address this issue and provide support and resources to the homeless. This can include funding for housing and support services, as well as programs to help the homeless find stable employment and improve their overall quality of life.

5. Essay on Homeless Children: In 100 Words

Homeless children face unique challenges and are at increased risk for physical and mental health problems, educational disruptions, and social isolation. It is crucial that society provides support and resources to help homeless children and their families get back on their feet. This can include access to affordable housing, education, and healthcare, as well as programs to help families achieve financial stability. By supporting homeless children, we can help break the cycle of poverty and improve their overall quality of life.

6. Essay on Homeless Person: In 200 Words

Being homeless is a difficult and often dangerous experience, and it is important to understand the challenges faced by homeless individuals. Homeless individuals often face physical and mental health problems, social isolation, and a decreased quality of life. It is crucial that society provides support and resources to help the homeless, including access to affordable housing, healthcare, and employment. By working together to address the root causes of homelessness, we can help improve the lives of those affected and reduce homelessness in our communities. Individual efforts, such as volunteering and donating to local organizations, can also make a significant impact. By showing empathy and understanding towards the homeless, we can help break down the stereotypes and stigmas often associated with homelessness, and work towards a more inclusive and supportive society.

In conclusion, homelessness is a complex social problem that affects individuals and communities. It is caused by a combination of factors such as poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental health and substance abuse issues, and unemployment. The effects of homelessness are far-reaching and devastating, impacting physical and mental health, perpetuating cycles of poverty, and strain on social services and emergency services.

FAQs On Homelessness

What are the causes of homelessness?

Homelessness is a complex issue with multiple underlying causes, including poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental health problems, and unemployment.

What can be done to reduce homelessness?

Efforts to reduce homelessness include addressing the root causes, such as poverty and lack of affordable housing, and providing support and resources to the homeless, including access to housing, healthcare, and employment. Government funding, private sector partnerships, and individual efforts can also make a significant impact.

How can individuals help the homeless?

Individuals can help the homeless by donating to local organizations, volunteering their time and skills, and advocating for policies and programs to address homelessness. They can also show empathy and understanding towards the homeless, breaking down stereotypes and stigmas associated with homelessness.

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Homelessness Essay | Essay on Homelessness for Students and Children in English

February 7, 2024 by Prasanna

Homelessness Essay:  In an individual’s life, at some point, he has heard or seen of a person who lives on the streets. A person is homeless if he lives on the streets and holds on to a sign that reads that they need money to buy food.

Although dejectedly these individuals are found everywhere; however, everyone can reduce this vast number. The number of homeless individuals will gradually decrease by providing the essential aid required to place these individuals in permanent housing.

You can also find more  Essay Writing  articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

Long and Short Essays on Homelessness for Students and Kids in English

For reference, we are providing students with essay samples on a long essay containing 500 words and a short essay containing 150 words on the topic Homelessness.

Long Essay on Homelessness 500 Words in English

Long Essay on Homelessness is usually given to classes 7, 8, 9, and 10.

Can anyone survive if there is no place for them to sit down or fall asleep or to store their belongings? These scenarios are unimaginable for many people, but for the homeless people, these scenarios are part of their daily lives.

The significant quantity of people is not even aware of the situation of homelessness in that is happening in most of the major cities of the world. In contrast, a portion is turning a blind eye to the subject, knowing the situation. The frequently occurring poverty and homelessness can be difficult to discuss for those living a wealthy lifestyle.

Homelessness is also associated with an absence of belonging. Absence of belonging can relate not only to a particular community but also to the people that reside there. Those portions which are aware of the situation of homelessness, some people loathe the poverty-stricken individuals of our society.

The leading causes of homelessness are unaffordability of housing, single parenting, increases in poverty rates, mental health and trauma and also due to lack of education and training. Our society can remove chronic homelessness by providing low income and affordable housing for the homeless population.

Although many facility programs focus on helping solve this significant issue in today’s society, many nations lack the resources necessary to help each one of the homeless people. Men, women, children, adults and families all are affected by one of the major social issue in the world that is homelessness.

Many of us have seen individuals asking for money who have all their belongings in a plastic bag and have nowhere to go. Although the most visible homeless people are the one sleeping roughly in doorways, homelessness also includes individuals who stay in bed and breakfast, hostels or other temporary accommodation or local authority housing.

It is tough to understand how a person becomes homeless, and researches show that they belong from all areas, backgrounds and age groups. Most researches show that more than three-fourth of the youngsters who turn to facility centres for help are homeless due to abuse, eviction or family breakdown.

Many of the young people also often become homeless following the death of their guardian due to which they face double blow becoming bereaved and homeless at the same time. But before seeking any help, these vulnerable young people find themselves sleeping rough.

The young people have no means of supporting themselves financially as they have no qualifications so a significant help to them would be if they get any assistance so that they can return to school or gain a qualification and get housing facilities through which they can find stability by finding worthwhile employment. But unfortunately, they are befriended by drug addicts or forced into prostitution for a minimal income.

Places affected by natural disasters like earthquakes and floods suddenly have thousands of persons whose houses become unliveable and who have nothing in possessions. The society has to change its attitude towards people who are facing these dire situations as its not their fault and help them to make their society a developed one.

Short Essay on Homelessness 150 Words in English

Short Essay on Homelessness is usually given to classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Homelessness is the state of people who do not have regular housing facilities and is also known as a social problem. Homeless people often spend their nights uncomfortably on the streets.

Also, they don’t have access to ordinary facilities such as money, food, shelter or even medical help. Some homeless person may even spend their nights at their friends’ house with just a blanket.

Some common factors why an individual becomes homeless is if someone faces domestic violence, flees persecution from another country, relationship breakdown, drugs and alcohol misuse, mental health problems, family disputes or may be unable to keep a steady job and hence not able to pay the rent.

Over five million low-income households face the struggles to maintain the homes due to high housing costs or substandard housing standard. The homeless people in our societies struggle every day to find a place to live. The government should take the primary measure to stop the growth of homelessness by providing cheap housing facilities to homeless people and give more opportunities to the less fortunate ones.

10 Lines on Homelessness Essay in English

1. The meaning of the term homelessness means people who do not have a place to stay. 2. Homeless people also include those who sleep in homeless shelters, abandoned buildings, parking garages or warming centres. 3. The right to housing is included in International human rights law. 4. An estimated 100 million people worldwide were found homeless, and almost 1 billion people were found to be living in refugees, temporary homes or in squatters in the year 2005. 5. Due to lack of steady income, homeless people are unable to acquire and maintain secure, safe, regular and adequate housing. 6. The majority of homeless people were men with single males, significantly over-represented in western countries. 7. Their options for earning income if they don’t have any skills or can’t find any source of income is either by begging or panhandling, which has become illegal in many cities. 8. Majority of the countries provides a variety of services to guide homeless people. 9. The services for homeless people provide shelters, clothing and foods by community organizations. 10. The organizations have supports from charities, churches, individual donors and governments.

FAQ’s on Homelessness Essay

Question 1. Define primary and secondary homelessness.

Answer:  Primary homelessness is experienced by individuals without conventional accommodation, for example, sleeping rough. Secondary homelessness is experienced by individuals who move around frequently from one temporary place to another.

Question 2. What are the structural factors causing homelessness?

Answer: The structural factors causing homelessness are poverty, lack of suitable housing, unemployment, benefits issues and policy developments and social trends.

Question 3. Who are the individuals that are mostly affected by homelessness?

Answer: Although the situations of homelessness have affected families, youths and children but most of the individuals who experience homelessness are single adults.

Question 4. Name the four types of homelessness.

Answer: The four types of homelessness are:

• Chronic homelessness
• Episodic homelessness
• Transitional homelessness
• Hidden homelessness.
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Home / Essay Samples / Social Issues / Poverty Problem / Homelessness

Homelessness Essay Examples

The top reasons for homelessness in america.

Poverty impacts the quality of life for people all around the world. In fact, thirty-nine million seven hundred thousand Americans lived in poverty at some point throughout the year 2017, according to the U.S Census Bureau. This equates to one in eight people in the...

Peter Singer’s "The Singer Solution to World Poverty"

Some may say that the homeless are lazy and just looking for handouts, but that is a dangerous stereotype that we must put an end to. This is Peter Singer’s “The Singer Solution to World Poverty,” summary paper where he claims that it is our...

Combatting Poverty: Strategies for Effective Solutions

Poverty and issues like homelessness can really happen to anyone, even without warning, this is why it must be ensured that their is sufficient support, reliable help and adequate solutions in place to prevent poverty and those in need of assistance. This is how to...

Eradicate Extreme Poverty and Hunger: Poverty in Ghana

Ghana so far has been dealing with its poverty rate well but could be improved obviously, but according to UNICEF (The United Nations Children's Fund , the Ghana poverty rate fell from 56.5 percent to 24.2 percent between 1992 and 2013, but unfortunately Ghana has...

The Poverty Paradox: an Argument for Addressing Poverty in the USA

The number of homeless Americans is growing. Rates of homelessness jumped by nine percent in 2017. The U.S. financial set up for 2019 has $8.8 billions of projected budget cuts for the Department of Housing and Development. Therefore, the issue does not appear to be...

The Root Causes of Poverty in the Philippines

To reveal the problem of poverty, first of all the causes of poverty in the Philippines should be addressed in this essay. Poverty is not just about being poor and does not have the capability of providing their own basic needs such as food, clothes,...

Fighting Poverty in the Philippines: Challenges and Solutions

This is poverty in the Philippines essay in which the topic of battling poverty in the Philippines will be discussed. The Sustainable Development Goals or SDG are a collection of 17 goals that can impact the certain countries, nations or even the world positively. These...

A Modest Proposal to Help Homeless People

To start with, this is a modest proposal essay in which this topic is described. We need to make modest proposals for preventing the poor people on streets, from taking our sidewalk side space and money, and making them beneficial to the economy. When you...

Cause and Effect of Poverty on Society Essay

In the work 'Cause and Effect of Poverty on Society Essay'  we talk about what is poverty and it conceptualizes. Poverty encompasses a range of deprivations that result in the state of living below a certain standard, materially or otherwise. Discourses on poverty have often...

Homelessness as a Complex Social Problem

Homelessness stands as a poignant testament to the social inequalities and systemic challenges that persist in our modern society. This essay delves into the multifaceted issue of homelessness as a complex social problem, exploring its underlying causes, far-reaching consequences, and potential solutions. At its core,...

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About Homelessness

The new definition includes four broad categories of homelessness: People who are living in a place not meant for human habitation, in emergency shelter, in transitional housing, or are exiting an institution where they temporarily resided.

Transitional Homelessness; Episodic Homelessness; Chronic Homelessness; Hidden Homelessness

Rent and eviction Economics Medical Discrimination Human and natural disasters Foster care Choice

Homelessness is a global issue. Although a safe home should be considered a fundamental human right, nearly 31 million children around the world are left unhoused. Many of these children and their families are forced to flee their homes due to war, persecution, and natural disasters. Some are left without shelter due to circumstances beyond their control. One-quarter of homeless people are children. Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness among women. One in five homeless people suffers from untreated severe mental illness.

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