Published by the National Coalition for the Homeless, June 1999 Homelessness is a devastating experience for families. It disrupts virtually every aspect of family life, damaging the physical and emotional health of family members, interfering with children's education and development, and frequently resulting in the separation of family members. The dimensions, causes, and consequences of family homelessness are discussed below. An overview of policy issues and a list of resources for further study are also provided.
Recent evidence confirms that homelessness among families is increasing.
Stagnating wages and changes in welfare programs account for increasing poverty among families. Thus, contrary to popular opinion, welfare does not provide relief from poverty. Welfare caseloads have dropped sharply since the passage and implementation of welfare reform legislation. Early findings suggest that although more families are moving from welfare to work, many of them are faring poorly due to low wages and inadequate work supports. Moreover, extreme poverty is growing more common for children, especially those in female-headed and working families.