The prevalence of severe interpersonal violence is significantly higher for women and children in families with incomes below the poverty level, and higher still for homeless women.
Individuals flee abuse at home only to rediscover it on the streets or in shelters.
Those who are mentally ill or under the influence of drugs or alcohol are even more vulnerable to attack, and less likely or able to seek help afterwards. Regardless of age or gender, homeless people are particularly vulnerable to injury, accident and assault. Trauma goes with the territory.