The increase of homeless women counts is a real scourge and
sorry state of affairs in this country.
The fastest-growing group of homeless people in the United
States is composed of single women with two or three children. Before the 1980s
the homeless population was mostly composed of men.
Within the last two decades this country has begun to
acknowledge the growing numbers of homeless women and children. Homeless women
are rarely seen because they often find shelter with relatives, friends, or
other homeless women. The majority of homeless women are on the streets because
of divorce or escaping domestic abuse. Abandonment is also a key contributor to
homelessness in women.
After the Great Depression, divorce rates dropped but
abandonment rates rose suggesting that couples simply split rather than pursue
a costly divorce. Decline of the welfare state and lack of affordable housing
have also led to the increase of homelessness in women.
Not so long ago, women and children were rare at rescue
missions and shelters. How times have changed! Today, homeless women with
children are more common than ever. According to some estimates, between 70%
and 90% of homeless families in America are headed by women. Even more
significant, the population of homeless families has increased by 35% since
1989.
If you are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless, or know
someone that is homeless, help is available. HUD, along with many other Federal
agencies, funds programs to help persons who are homeless. Local homeless
assistance agencies provide a range of services and assistance, including
emergency shelter, food, housing counseling, job training and placement
assistance.
For general information on available resources, please visit
the Resources for Homeless Persons
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