While exploring Jenck’s theories regarding what the causes of homelessness are and discussing how relevant or accurate his claims are today, I came across several statistics relating to domestic violence.
A report from 2009 comprised by the National Coalition for the Homeless elucidates that one out every four women will experience domestic violence at some point in her life. This shocking statistic directly correlates with homelessness rates, because many women are forced to flee their homes to avoid further violence from partners. Often these women make the decision to be homeless in order to remove their children from the perilous and volatile home situations. In fact, in 2008, 28% of families reported that they were homeless as a result of domestic violence (U.S Conference of Mayors, 2008) and 39% of cities of cities cited domestic abuse as being the primary reason for homelessness in their area (U.S Conference of Mayors, 2007).
These numbers have only increased since the reports were made. Sadly, funds allotted to aid homelessness have not increased and so many women are faced with the horrible decision as to whether they are better off risking more violence by remaining at home with an abusive husband or boyfriend or relinquishing their homes and taking to the streets. The women who choose to leave their homes are often left with almost no resources and as a result are incapable of helping themselves out of their dire situations. This becomes even more difficult when children are present. As we have studied in class, attending school and being a successful student and learner is nearly impossible when your family and home life is unstable and inconsistent.
Despite all of this blatant evidence that homeless victims of domestic violence desperately need help, on any given day, approximately 1,800 people can not be provided with emergency shelter and 1,500 people could not be given any transitional shelter either (National Network to End Domestic Violence.) It is obvious that more needs to be done to offer relief to the courageous women who have left violent situations and need a hand getting back on their feet and rebuilding their lives.
Interview With a Homeless Woman and Victim of Domestic Violence