The main reason why I decided to write about this issue stems from the fact that I wanted to educate myself about how such a societal issue can lead to more far-reaching implications when government fails to enact policies that ensure funding and support for those who require housing, especially those who suffer from mental illness or substance abuse. The state of homelessness can be solved if proper legislation can necessitate the proper steps to combating the social barriers that are affecting the most vulnerable. Besides, I wanted to learn more about the statistical breakdown that recognizes homelessness within my community.
With a combination of the high costs of living and the rising pandemic that has swept through the nation, Americans have become exposed to one of the world's largest homelessness crises. Given that a majority have fallen into one of several categories, that of which includes, a loss of family, declining health or sufficient resources, or being fired from a job, all have contributed to the rapidly growing predicament that is only set become worse, especially with the Covid-19 situation. According to recent data, CityLab University proposed that "The economic disruption, housing instability, and massive unemployment that was led in part of the coronavirus, can inevitability cause a 45% increase nationwide"(Schneider, 2020). Without proper government subsidy for emergency shelter and permanent housing, the current statistics will only heighten.
More specifically, the community that is most relevant to this topic of discussion is the city of Los Angeles. Largely situated around impoverished areas that are disproportionately affected by economic disparities and systemic racism, the LA county has neglected the lives of those who are currently or will be experiencing homelessness. The overwhelming majority who are forced to live in tents, encampments, or vehicles signal the fundamental issue that invokes inequality in our economic system. Even with homelessness growing at unprecedented rates, the LA mayor has continued to fight, having explained that, "The ongoing crisis will be deeply invested through more funding and policy that makes housing a right for everyone" (Scott, 2020). In essence, those who are desperate in need must receive assistance and services that provide housing for the general public.
I feel personally affected by this homeless epidemic since I find it imperative that everyone contributes to the advocacy of a sustainable future where no one would have to feel isolated. To combat the issues of homelessness, there should be an expansion in the number of single-room occupancy hotels and apartments that are capable of housing the homeless. There should also be effective housing policies that promote the wellbeing of our communities utilizing addressing the shelter shortage. One of the ways to prevent such an issue in the first place solely presides on knowing the root of the cause that first created the problem.
Rajpari, A. (2020, February 24). What is Homelessness and Why is it an Issue? Retrieved October 19,
2020, from https://sites.uab.edu/humanrights/2020/03/09/what-is-homelessness-and-why-is-it-an issue/
Scott, A. (2020, June 12). Homelessness In Los Angeles County Rises Sharply. Retrieved October 19, 2020, from https://www.npr.org/2020/06/12/875888864/homelessness-in-los-angeles-county-rises-sharply
Schneider, B. (2020, July 06). Why Is Homelessness Such a Problem in U.S. Cities? Retrieved October 19, 2020, from https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2020-07-06/why-is-homelessness-such-a-problem-in-u-s-cities
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