Primary Needs of Homeless Families

Raising the children, social supports, and change in demographics can be a challenge for a homeless family. Homelessness disrupts every aspect of family life that can damage the physical and emotional health of the family members, interfere with child education and development, and in some cases, separate the family members. 

On a lighter note, there are specific possible solutions to take into action for families experiencing homelessness. These are only a few of the solutions to overcome homelessness

Enough income. A homeless family’s breadwinner should have a job that pays a livable minimum wage. It should be enough to cover the basic expenses such as housing, food, utilities, and health and child care. Enough income for every family will able them to survive daily. 

Healthcare services. Most homeless families do not have free access to healthcare services in their locality, resulting in significant health complications. Whenever illness strikes, their basic needs such as food will be compromised. These families most probably do not have insurance to cover health emergencies. Access to healthcare facilities and educating them about the importance of insurance can help them cope with any health-related situation.

Child care. Children are mostly affected if their family is homeless. Their growth physically, socially, mentally, and emotionally can be disrupted. Also, children can serve as one of the main expenses for families as they need extra care. Homeless mothers are less likely to receive child care subsidies; having stable, protective services needs and childcare arrangements may resolve child care issues.

Affordable housing. Whether temporary or permanent, all of the issues mentioned above can somehow be resolved. Enough income, healthcare services, and childcare will be accessible for having safe and stable housing that is affordable for homeless families. Having a place to finally settle in can help the parents participate in job training, education, and other essential programs that will enable them to have better income to sustain their families’ basic needs.

The impact of homeless families is profound where they experience anger, self-blame, sadness, fear, considerable stress, trauma, and hopelessness. Educating people about the extent and causes of family homelessness and what to do about it can help lessen the burden of families living in this kind of situation.

The first step is always the hardest, but having a safe and secure place to let your family stay can be a great start to a new beginning. There is always hope and everyone has a purpose.

Start looking for housing that suits your family and what you can work with.