1. Welcome to Unit 9 The Homeless HN115

2. Who are the Homeless?

3. The Homeless The Federal Government’s definition of homeless: An individual who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence… Counting the homeless – it is difficult to get an accurate head count Why? On average, 650,000 individuals experience homelessness on any given night

4. Who are the Homeless? What are some of the risk factors for becoming homeless?

5. Questions to Discuss Who are the most vulnerable to become homeless?

6. Who are the Homeless? Recent studies conducted in the 1990s revealed a tendency to blame the poor for their poverty However, research shows that social and structural issues are the primary cause of poverty. – Shortages in affordable housing – Significant increase in educational requirements for employment – Long-standing institutionalized discrimination – Increase in the complexity of life

7. Who are the Homeless? The early church and caring for the poor (remember we talked about the “deserving poor”?) The Middle Ages and the wandering poor (mostly men who migrated for employment) The Great Depression – almost everyone affected – Brought most people back to the understanding that poverty and homelessness can be caused by circumstances beyond one’s control

8. Who are the Homeless? Homelessness in the 1970’s and 1980’s – rise in homeless single parent families Study done in 1999 found: – Of all homeless families 80% were headed by a single parent – Of those, 95% were female

9. The Contemporary Picture of Homelessness: Oversimplification of the causes of homelessness Most homeless, single mothers have never been married Only 20% of homeless people have been on public assistance, even though most would qualify. The court system not enforcing child support

10. The Contemporary Picture of Homelessness: Children are the fastest growing population of homeless More complex problems and more needs The Invisible Youth Network: Homeless children Parenting in a homeless shelter Hours of operation for families Shelter rules and policies not made for families.

11. The Contemporary Picture of Homelessness: Estimated 2 million adolescents are on the streets in the US Adolescents will more likely live on a street than in a homeless shelter. They run away from home or are kicked out of homes. Sexual exploitation They find each other and help one another to survive. Suspicious of adults Intervention programs

12. The Contemporary Picture of Homelessness: Just under 50% consists of men in the homeless population Childhood history of abuse Mental illness Substance abusers Veterans

13. The Elderly Fewer social supports Fewer family members Common age related physical issues Limited employment opportunities Increased vulnerability Financially victimized

14. The Role of the HS Professional What can you do as a human services professional in your role to help the homeless?

15. The Role of the HS Professional Empower clients Address the needs of the entire family Judgment free Intervention and prevention Advocate for the needs of the homeless

16. Working with the Homeless Emergency Shelters Daytime drop in shelters Transitional housing programs Domestic violence shelters Public housing projects Case management Coordinators Volunteers to raise awareness: Invisible Youth Network

17. Questions to Discuss What are some of the laws and legislation set up to protect the homeless? Do you think they are effective? Why or why not?

18. Recap of term Please take a minute and think back over the term and all of the lessons that we covered, which there were several- What will you take away from this class that will help you as you continue your personal, academic and professional journey?

19. That is great! Look at this list at and see how much all of you have gained over the term.

20. Ah-ha! What is the one idea or concept from this course that has been the biggest “ah-ha” (light bulb going off) moment for you?

21. I give you all a lot of credit- you really have to manage your time well when taking online classes. Life can easily get in the way and school can get put on the back burner but you all have worked really hard to not let that happen and that is important.

22. Giving back We discussed how these things will help enhance you, your learning and society...Why is it important to give back to society?

23. I’ve Had My Moments I would like you to go an watch this music video and listen to the words http://www.youtube.com/watch? v=HQ3-PHktE34 There are many people that are just one moment away from needing help from human services professional

24. I am very happy for all of you that you are almost completed with this class. My father always said to me that your education is one thing that can never be taken away from you. This is so true and you are all on your way to earning your degree that will be yours forever

25. Thank you! You all have been very supportive and helpful to one another. This has been a great class! I hope you all can take what you have learned in class and apply it to your own lives, in and out of school. It has been a pleasure getting to know all of you and I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors!

26. WAY TO GO!!! Have a wonderful week! Thank you for coming to our last seminar! Remember that you do have discussion questions to answer in Unit 9 and 10. See you all on the discussion boards. Take care!