1. Homelessness in the USA: An Introduction Dr. Nancy Kleniewski

2. Trends in homelessness Historical patterns 19 c hoboes, tramps Early 20 c skid rows – Rescue missions – Cafeterias – Flop houses – Lodging houses – SROs – Public baths

3. Recent trends Surge in 1980s and since Current numbers (NLCHP 2008 estimates) – 3.5 million/year and growing – 20% chronically homeless (5+ yrs)

4. Characteristics of homeless population 60% single males 33% families (1.3m children <18) 70% urban

5. Special populations Hidden homeless – Couch surfers (teenagers) – Families doubled up – Car campers Children – School eligibility – NY State= 38 th of 50 states re well-being of homeless children

6. Structural causes of homelessness Escalating housing costs – F-T/min wage ≠ 1 BR apt. anywhere in USA Reduction of public support – Public /subsidized housing↓ >50% since 1980 – Waiting list for Public Housing = 2 yrs; for voucher = 3 yrs.

7. Policy contribution Mental health “deinstitutionalization” – Law = less restrictive environments (drugs) – No $ for community mental health centers Unintended consequences – People released from hospitals – People “off meds”

8. Precipitating individual factors Low income – Working poor (44% of homeless people have jobs) – Returning veterans Domestic violence/family disputes Substance abuse Bad luck – Foreclosure of landlord – Medical bills/bankruptcy

9. Variation in local responses Criminalization – Sleeping, loitering, panhandling, camping Forcible removal – Sweeps, “bus therapy” Positive actions – Work programs, outreach services – Construction of affordable housing

10. National homeless policy HUD: “Continuum of Care” 1. Emergency shelters – Housing and services 2. Transitional housing – Supportive services available 3. Permanent subsidized housing – “Housing first” 4. Eviction/foreclosure prevention – Financial assistance to keep people housed

11. Resources National Coalition for the Homeless – www.nationalhomeless.org www.nationalhomeless.org National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty – www.nlchp.org www.nlchp.org National Low Income Housing Coalition – http://www.nlihc.org/template/index.cfm http://www.nlihc.org/template/index.cfm