Many of these young mothers are fleeing domestic violence , and most lack the work skills, access to child care, or access to jobs necessary to support their families. Contrary to popular belief, the homeless is not lazy and dependent exclusively on public welfare. As a result of low wages, many impoverished workers are forced out of their homes when extenuating circumstances come into play. When children become homeless , they face additional setbacks such as in education . Requirements of legal guardianship, lack of a permanent address and immunization records often delay or prevent homeless children from enrolling in schools and receiving an adequate education.
Homelessness also singles out other groups of people such as the sick.
Employers often unmercifully fire those carrying the dreaded disease and medication fees are expensive. Another group singled out by homelessness is the elderly. With less income from work and more necessary expenditures such as medications, many elderly people are having to make a choice between food, shelter and medications.