The Causes And Consequences Of Homelessness To The Community

The reasons and consequences of homelessness to an individual, and to the community, are widespread. In 2014, a census by the Homeless and Housing Coalition of Onondaga County determined that 851 people were homeless in Onondaga County; that is, “Having no home or permanent place of residence” (“homeless”). Several conditions lead to homelessness; some are caused by uncontrolled events, while others are self-inflicted. More often than not, being homeless is not a choice. Most people would love to have a residency to call their own, however, life can be challenging, therefore, making that impossible. The economy is fickle, and as a result, people lose their jobs and fortunes, including their homes. Unable to afford even the most basic of housing,

Other factors in homelessness are addiction and mental disabilities, specifically PTSD in war veterans. Many homeless persons have problems with alcoholism, drug abuse, and possibly gambling. Addiction ruins people’s lives, and many don’t realize it until it is too late. Eventually, an addiction can cause someone to steal from their own family, which then burns a bridge that could’ve helped them out of their situation. In particular cases, certain people with mental issues cannot or will not willingly be institutionalized, and since they have difficulty getting jobs, they live on the streets, panhandling and collection recyclable materials to make money. These are the main causes of homelessness and only scratch the surface of why homelessness exists and who it happens too. It is reasonable to suggest that being homeless isn’t usually voluntary. While there are instances where people purposefully live without a home, most are forced to live that way. Being

Douglas 3 homeless is not glamorous, these people are forced to live with whatever belongings they can carry with them, however old or tattered those possessions might be. Although there are places

There are business establishments that will not grant the homeless admittance due to their poor personal hygiene and appearance. One instance of the homeless causing an issue was when John Kuppermann, owner of Smith Restaurant Supply in Syracuse, complained about “. . .how the homeless population under an Interstate 81 overpass is hurting his business” (Tobin). John complains about how some of the homeless there “urinate and defecate on his property, panhandle his customers and staff” (Tobin). Additionally, where ever homeless individuals congregate it becomes an eyesore. These are legitimate complaints. As of this writing I do not know if the situation has been