The reality of homelessness is often different than what is commonly understood.

Let's debunk some of the most common myths surrounding homelessness.

MYTH: HOMELESSNESS IS A CHOICE.

The vast majority of people do not choose to be homeless. Homelessness often results from a combination of factors including job loss, unaffordable housing, mental health issues, substance abuse, domestic violence, and a lack of social support. 
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Research from the National Alliance to End Homelessness shows that economic hardship, lack of affordable housing, and personal crises are the primary drivers of homelessness.

myth: HOMELESS PEOPLE ARE MOSTLY SINGLE MEN.

Homelessness affects a diverse group of people, including families, women, veterans, and youth. In many areas, families with children are the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) reports that about 30% of the homeless population is made up of families with children. Additionally, there has been an increase in homeless women, veterans, and LGBTQ+ youth.

MYTH: HOMELESS PEOPLE DON'T WORK.

Many people experiencing homelessness are employed, but still can't afford housing. Low wages, part-time or unstable work, and high housing costs contribute to their inability to secure stable housing.

According to a report by the Urban Institute, between 25% and 40% of homeless adults work at some point during the year, but their earnings are often insufficient to cover the high cost of housing.

MYTH: PROVIDING SERVICES TO HOMELESS PEOPLE ONLY ENABLES THEIR SITUATION.

Providing services like housing, healthcare, and employment support can help people transition out of homelessness. Housing-first approaches, where individuals are provided with stable housing before addressing other issues, are highly effective. 

A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that participants in Housing First programs were more likely to remain stably housed compared to those in traditional programs.

A study by the Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) found that supportive housing reduces homelessness, improves health outcomes, and is cost-effective. The study shows that participants in supportive housing are more likely to stay housed, less likely to use emergency services, and more likely to engage in employment or educational activities.

MYTH: MOST HOMELESS PEOPLE SUFFER FROM MENTAL ILLNESS OR SUBSTANCE ABUSE.

While mental illness and substance abuse are more common among the homeless population than the general population, they are not universal. Many people experiencing homelessness do not have these issues.

A report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) estimates that about one-third of people experiencing homelessness have a serious mental illness, and about one-third have substance abuse disorders. While these are significant numbers, the majority do not suffer from these conditions.

MYTH: HOMELESSNESS IS A PERMANENT CONDITION.

Homelessness is often a temporary situation for many people. With the right support, including affordable housing, job assistance, and healthcare, most people can transition out of homelessness.

HUD's Annual Homelessness Assessment Report (AHAR) shows that many people who experience homelessness do so temporarily, with interventions such as rapid rehousing helping them transition back to stable housing.

MYTH: homeless people are dangerous.

People experiencing homelessness are more likely to be victims of crime than perpetrators. They often face violence and exploitation on the streets.

Research from the National Coalition for the Homeless indicates that homeless individuals are at a significantly higher risk of being victims of violent crime, including hate crimes, compared to the general population.

MYTH: HOMELESSNESS IS ONLY AN URBAN PROBLEM.

Homelessness exists in rural and suburban areas as well as cities. In some rural areas, homelessness may be less visible, but it still exists, often in the form of people living in cars, motels, or overcrowded housing.
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The National Alliance to End Homelessness notes that rural homelessness often includes "hidden" homelessness, where people live in unstable or non-traditional housing situations due to the lack of shelters and services.