Debunking Myths About Homelessness: Understanding the Realities

When people think about the average homeless person, they think of the stereotypical, “dirty” homeless who “don’t want to work for their money.” Honestly, this stereotype couldn’t be farther from the truth. At I Am Human NY, we aim to dispel these myths and shed light on the realities faced by homeless individuals and families. Let's explore and debunk some of the most pervasive myths about homelessness.

Myth 1: Most Homeless People Are Chronically Homeless

Reality: The Majority Experience Short-Term Homelessness

Contrary to popular belief, most homeless individuals are not chronically homeless. In 2022, only 27% of homeless individuals in the U.S. were considered chronically homeless. In New York City, approximately 19% of homeless single adults and 5% of homeless families with children were chronically homeless. Miami-Dade County reported that 24% of its homeless population was chronically homeless. The majority of people experiencing homelessness do so for relatively short periods, often due to sudden economic hardship or personal crises.

Myth 2: Homelessness Is Primarily Caused by Mental Illness and Substance Abuse

Reality: Lack of Affordable Housing Is the Primary Cause

While mental illness and substance abuse can contribute to homelessness, the primary cause is often a lack of affordable housing. In New York City, only 16% of homeless single adults in shelters had a serious mental illness in 2022. In Miami-Dade County, 20% of the homeless population reported having a serious mental illness. The National Low Income Housing Coalition highlights a shortage of 7 million affordable rental homes for extremely low-income renters nationwide. In New York City, there are only 46 affordable and available rental homes for every 100 extremely low-income renter households.

Myth 3: Most Homeless People Are Unemployed

Reality: Many Homeless Individuals Are Employed

A significant portion of homeless individuals are employed but unable to afford housing. Nationwide, studies have found that between 25% and 50% of homeless individuals work. In New York City, about 70% of families with children in shelters have at least one employed adult. In Miami-Dade County, 17% of homeless individuals reported some form of employment in 2022. These statistics reveal that homelessness is often a result of economic instability and insufficient wages rather than unemployment.

Myth 4: Homelessness Is a Choice

Reality: Homelessness Results from Systemic and Personal Factors

Homelessness is rarely a choice; it is often the result of systemic and personal factors beyond an individual's control. Key factors contributing to homelessness include a lack of affordable housing, poverty, unemployment or underemployment, domestic violence, health issues and medical debt, and eviction. In New York City, 41% of families entering shelters in 2022 cited eviction as the primary reason for their homelessness. In Miami-Dade County, 25% of homeless individuals reported job loss as the primary cause of their homelessness.

Myth 5: Providing Housing to Homeless People Is Too Expensive

Reality: Housing-First Approaches Are Cost-Effective

Providing housing to homeless individuals is not only humane but also cost-effective in the long run. Studies have found that providing permanent supportive housing can reduce public costs associated with homelessness by up to 40%. In New York City, the average cost of sheltering a family is $70,000 per year, while providing rental assistance costs about $20,000 per year. Investing in housing-first approaches can save money and provide stable housing for those in need.

Myth 6: Homelessness Primarily Affects Single Men

Reality: Families with Children Represent a Significant Portion

Families with children make up a significant portion of the homeless population. In 2022, families with children accounted for 30% of the homeless population nationwide. In New York City, families with children represented 61% of the homeless shelter population. In Miami-Dade County, families with children made up 12% of the homeless population. These figures illustrate that homelessness affects diverse groups, including many vulnerable families.

Myth 7: Providing Food and Shelter Enables People to Remain Homeless

Reality: Basic Necessities Are Crucial for Stability

This harmful misconception overlooks the importance of providing basic necessities like food and shelter. These necessities are crucial for helping people experiencing homelessness stabilize their lives and work towards long-term solutions. Research has shown that "Housing First" approaches, which provide stable housing without preconditions, are highly effective in helping people exit homelessness permanently. This model, which originated in New York City in 1992, has demonstrated that providing immediate access to independent housing with support services is welcomed and accepted by most homeless individuals.

Rather than enabling homelessness, providing food, shelter, and other basic services creates a foundation from which people can begin to rebuild their lives and work towards self-sufficiency. These services are often critical first steps in helping individuals overcome homelessness.

Conclusion

Homelessness is a complex issue that defies simple stereotypes. Addressing homelessness requires a multifaceted approach that includes increasing affordable housing, providing supportive services, and addressing systemic inequalities. By dispelling these myths and understanding the realities faced by homeless individuals and families, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society. At I Am Human NY, we are committed to advocating for and supporting those experiencing homelessness. Follow us and support our mission to help those in need and create lasting change.