It is a research paper about the topic (Homeless Families) Essay

It is a research paper about the topic (Homeless Families) - Essay Example A majority of these people are thrust into the homeless state by life-altering events that were unexpected. Some tragic life occurrences such as job loss, domestic violence, family disputes, and loss of loved ones can lead to homelessness (Bassuk et al, 2010). Homelessness is by and large a three-pronged problem. It is affected by economic, political, and social factors. The state of homeless families exploded in the early 1980s when federal funds were withdrawn from social assistance and low-income housing programs. The programs were meant to cater for the mentally ill and low-income families. Lack of affordable housing and the rising gap between earnings have left many of families and individuals in America homeless (Nunez, 2000). Economic factors are a central cause, as are social factors such as long-term drug addiction, mental illness, and alcoholism which can contribute to homelessness. Studies show that at least 25 percent of homeless people suffer from a kind of mental illness (NHC 2006). Twenty percent of the homeless are also drug and alcohol addicts, and the lack of access to affordable care can leave them vulnerable to the problem for their entire lives. This paper evaluates various aspects of homeless families such as how hom elessness affects children, and what society is doing to alleviate the problem (Bassuk et al, 2010). The rate of homelessness among American families has grown extensively over the last two decades. Between 2007 and 2010, the number of homeless families rose significantly. In 2007, 30% of the homeless people were in families and the percentage changed to 35% in 2010. This percentage is, however, devoid of the proportion in the suburban and rural areas (Khadduri & Culhane 2011). The affected families experienced frequent moves while in search of employment and secure affordable housing. The turbulence resulting from the movement affects children, and they