Homeless people suffer from the same health problems as people with homes, but at elevated rates. Conditions which require regular, uninterrupted treatment, such as tuberculosis, are extremely difficult to treat or control among people without stable shelter. In addition, homeless persons are at increased risk of frostbite, leg ulcers and upper respiratory infections as a direct result of homelessness. Impact on Families and Children Homelessness is a devastating experience for families. It disrupts all aspects of family life, damaging the physical and emotional health of family members.
Homelessness interferes with children s education and development.
Homeless children also face barriers to enrolling in and attending school. These include transportation problems, residency requirements, inability to obtain previous school records, and lack of clothing and school supplies. Homelessness frequently separates families. Families may be broken up when children are placed in foster care when parents become homeless. Also, parents may leave their children in the care of friends or relatives in order to save them from homelessness or to allow children to attend their regular school.