While reading the ASR reports, listening to past presentations, and beginning internships, the main problem that seems to be throughout each is how homeless people can escape homelessness. Homeless people face many societal and personal challenges each day. Communities will offer various forms of assistance, but often there is a lack of resources available. In two of the ASR reports (which provides statistical information about the homeless population in a given city) both had populations of 50% that were ‘chronically homeless’. Those who are homeless may have strategies to help them survive, but there financial stability is almost impossible without proper resources to successfully transition out of homelessness.

In Tell Them Who I Am by Liebow, he argues that there are structural and policy based obstacles to homelessness and that a main factor is providing housing assistance as a stepping stone out of homelessness. A recent 60 minutes special addresses the need for such stepping stones as the ‘100,000 Homes Campaign’ is discussed. This campaign works with non-profits and local governments to provide permanent homes for those who are chronically homeless and have health problems. A person is not discriminated against if they are alcoholics or drug abusers, the main goal is to house those who are considered to be high risk. So far they’ve raised funds to house about 80,000. This campaign encourages people to join through compassion but also finances. The organization promotes that it cost taxpayers more than to help them afford homes, “The inability to tend to your basic healthcare needs, results in people on the streets ending up in emergency rooms and ending up in in-patient hospitalizations. And one night in the hospital is a whole month’s rent on most places.”

We have learned about many examples where the homeless are ignored, forced out of public spaces, and dehumanized. This campaign is a prime example of a positive way to help people out of homelessness. They are bringing communities together to raise funds and directly address the issue.

To review 60 Minutes article click here: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/100000-homes-housing-homeless-saves-money/

To look at ASR reports click here: http://www.appliedsurveyresearch.org/homeless/