It is estimated that 3.5 million people in the U.S. are homeless. At any given time, 1.35 million children are homeless [Statistics on Homeless Children & Youth, Macomb Intermediate School District, 2007]. That is a very sad and disturbing statistic. Has anyone ever stopped to wonder what happens to all of the homeless children?
Why Homelessness Happens in the First Place
The issues that affect homelessness are many. Some people choose to live on the streets. For others, it is an accumulation of a series of events, many of which they have no control over. Still others become homeless as a result of some very bad choices in life such as:
- Drugs
- Alcohol
- Criminal activity
Whatever the reason, it is a very sad state of affairs, especially since there is far too little help available to these unfortunate individuals. It is especially sad that there are often children involved who can't do anything about it.
Struggles for the Homeless Child
For a child, homelessness is often a greater tragedy than can be imagined. When a parent first finds out she has no home, she often begins to stay with friends or family members, if this option is available. Many times, it doesn't take long for an individual and her child to wear out a welcome, and she is moving on to the next home. For those without families or friends, it can mean a quick transition into the streets.
A homeless child often finds many more problems arising than just not having a roof over his head. There are social and economic disadvantages as well. Many homeless children do not have access to health care, and an even more limited access to education.
This child is often the witness to violent crimes or is the victim. This usually occurs from other homeless individuals. Many of the crimes are over something as simple as food or a pair of shoes. To the homeless parent, these cruel acts can mean the difference between life and death for the child.
There is a feeling of distaste from most "normal" people when they come into contact with a homeless child. This child is looked upon as though he brought the situation totally upon himself. To this end, some homeless children are mocked and badgered by bullies who take advantage of the child's disadvantage. It is hard to feel anything but deep sorrow for children in this scenario.
Children who are homeless are more likely to become ill, suffer mental health issues, and abuse drugs than those within a stable home. While this makes sense, it does not ease the issue of the severe problems these homeless kids deal with on a daily basis.
Many times a child as young as six or seven will care for an infant or toddler, while a parent is trying to find a job, scrounge up food, or continue to abuse alcohol or drugs. In fact, many children become chronic homeless people because they never knew how to get a hand-up in life when the role model in their life was a drug addict.
Some homeless children are severe alcoholics and drug addicts, as early as the age of 10 years old. There are limited services available to help beat these addictions. Many will turn to criminal activities in order to get the money they need to feed their habit. In turn, the arrest rate is also high for homeless children [About Education; Plight of the Homeless by Fred Hechinger, New York Times, May 5, 1987]. The juvenile incarceration rate is also high.
What Help is Available to Homeless Children
There are a handful of charities that are organized to help the homeless. Some of these organizations target children and families specifically. Visit Just Give for a guide to many charities listed by categories. This is a great way to start helping homeless children all over the U.S.
Consider other ways to help. Volunteer at a local homeless shelter. It is surprising to learn the stories of many of the returning homeless people. There is a certain tug at the heart strings experienced as a mother walks in the door with her three young children. Just think what a hot meal and warm place to sleep means to her that very night.
A child who has fallen victim to homelessness didn't ask to be there. The social and emotional problems that stem from this situation are devastating. Just one hand-up may be all it takes for a child to experience a "normal" life. Now there's something to ponder about.
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