What are the solutions?

 

The causes of homelessness are indeed complex. But, there are solutions.

 

All homeless people have one thing in common - a lack of housing. The gap between the cost of adequate housing and the income available to pay for it is too large for many individuals and families. Though we can debate what has caused the dramatic increase in the number of people without housing, access to housing is still the first step in dealing with the problem. Until people find a safe, secure, affordable home, and have stability where they live, they cannot achieve stability where they work, where their children go to school and where they find support.

 

There are three components to addressing homelessness:

 

All Canadians require adequate, affordable housing.

 

All need enough money to live on (jobs, job training, adequate income).

 

Some men, women and youth who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless need support services. These practical supports include job search assistance, substance abuse treatment, housing support services, job training, education, physical and mental health care, and the provision of shelter tied to transitional and permanent affordable housing for people who would otherwise be on the streets.

 

            *The preceding information is provided by Raising the Roof, and used with permission.