Since the start of the economic crisis in 2008, more working class Americans are becoming homeless. Who are the newly homeless and what can be done about it? A little over 30% of the homeless population is now made up of families with children (i.e. both mother and father with children). That number is growing as the recession pushes more middle class families out of unaffordable housing. The loss of job(s) by one of two working parents can put the whole family in jeopardy. Whether the reason is unemployment by either partner, foreclosure or the high cost of housing, homelessness is becoming a growing problem that must be dealt with. There are not a lot of housing options for homeless people. Some live on the streets. Others live in abandoned cars, shelters or tent cities. A growing number are living in inexpensive motels. Many school districts help homeless families with children by providing transportation to and from the motel and school.
A new category of homeless people are women over the age of 50 years old. Although most of these women work, they are unable to afford the high cost of rent, and resort to living on the streets. Some of these women have never been homeless in their lives, and have to actually be taught skills to survive as a homeless person. They also must be taught how to utilize social services for homeless people.
A growing number of people who are homeless have lost their jobs. Since the recession, many well paying jobs have been downsized. Among the newly homeless include those in the construction industry, auto workers, and many other industries which have laid off its workers.
So, what can be done if someone you know becomes homeless? The best thing to do is to get on the list for Section 8 housing. Section 8 housing is a federal program that allows you to live in a subsidized apartment or house. Individuals or families pay 30% of their income as rent. If their income is zero, then they pay zero. Unfortunately, the list for section 8 housing is long. However, if someone goes into a shelter, then they are considered priority for section 8 housing, and can be moved up on the waiting list.
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