In class, we discussed a model that showed possible causes of homelessness in a series of three. The three categories include moral (sin), disease (sickness), and systemic (structure/social change). People tend to automatically assume homeless individuals become homeless due to their personal and individual decisions, but in reality social systems influence the rate of homelessness more than assumed. One idea that was not directly discussed as a cause of homelessness if the fact that you can be born into it. As I continue to volunteer at a shelter that should remain unnamed, I am becoming more exposed to the idea of youths and teens being introduced to poverty and homelessness from the very start of their lives. Some people engage in activities such as drug abuse or alcoholism, some are not responsible with money intake, some refuse to get a job, some work hard to make the minimum amount of income to afford decent housing, and others have no choice but to start their lives with the struggles of homelessness and have the choice to work their way up or to remain constant throughout their entire lives. This realization has made me appreciate youth/teen shelters or programs so much more than I have ever acknowledged. Shelters provided for teens or children aim to help before hope is completely lost.

If you are looking for some community service opportunities, there will be an event Tuesday night at 7pm in Orton. An agency known as Steps for Life will host a benefit for victims of domestic violence where volunteers will help make care packages that will be delivered to women and children victims of domestic violence. Any help will be beneficial!