The threats of being thrown out on the streets and to have one's children taken away clearly constitutes, not only excessive stress, but has the potential of creating an explosive situation. The National Association of Social Workers believes that work is one of several important goals for helping families reach independence and self-sufficiency. However, it is not the only, nor necessarily, the primary goal. Given the circumstances of homelessness, of equal or even greater importance is the provision of basic needs such as affordable housing, health care, support for children's learning and their well being. We need to appreciate and recognize what will happen when homeless parents are forced into workfare programs.
Homeless children experience life as uncertain and impermanent.
Developmentally, they are often anxious about separation from parents and strongly need parental attention and presence. The National Association of Social Workers believes that public policies that threaten vulnerable women and children, dismantle families, remove children from their parents, and force them to flee from shelters in fear, is not merely flawed planning. These plans are simply put, immoral. The National Association of Social Workers commends those who challenge these policies in court and the shelter providers who have announced that they will not implement this new policy if allowed to stand. Furthermore, the time has come for all New Yorkers to assess the social conditions affecting the homeless and to determine what policies and services need to be in place in order to adequately address their needs.