Is Homelessness a Choice?

Exposing Myths: Is Homelessness Always a Choice? | 100,000 Homes
 Whenever Ryan and I engage in conversation with people about homelessness, it seems that it always focuses on  one thing: "People choose to be homeless." We couldn't disagree more. People who are homeless are living on the streets for very different reasons. Some have problems with addiction, mental health, relationships, money, or developmental problems. In fact, most people who are homeless are homeless due to lack of affordable housing and eroding work opportunities (National Coalition for the Homeless). We believe that mental health and addiction barriers prevent people from realizing their greatest potential, arresting them from being productive members of society and holds them captive. Ryan and I work around the clock to connect people with the starting points of therapy and treatment. We are action oriented, we help people who are homeless to realize their strengths through active case management; it's more than just providing people with a one time meal....what happens next....after the food has been eaten....where will they sleep tonight....who will understand their barriers...how can we move them into housing and ensure their success?
Is homelessness a choice? Would you CHOOSE to be homeless.............
-Kristi