Homelessness is a complex issue impacting millions globally, and is frequently misrepresented and misunderstood. To tackle this pressing social concern effectively, it’s crucial to distinguish between fact and fiction.

Below, we’re uncovering essential facts about homelessness, challenging common misconceptions, and offering a more accurate view of the experiences faced by those who are experiencing homelessness.

Common Myths About Homelessness

• Myth: Homelessness simply means living on the street.

  Reality: Homelessness includes a wide range of living situations, from staying in shelters, cars, or abandoned buildings to “couch-surfing” at friends’ or family members’ homes. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) defines homelessness as lacking a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.

• Myth: Homelessness is a rare problem in the United States.

  Reality: As of 2023, more than 580,000 people experience homelessness in the United States on any given night. This includes individuals and families living in emergency shelters, transitional housing, and places not meant for human habitation.

• Myth: Homelessness is only a problem in big cities.

  Reality: Homelessness affects both urban and rural areas. Rural homelessness often involves fewer shelters and resources, making it less visible but equally serious. Small towns and rural communities also struggle with poverty, lack of affordable housing, and limited social services, which contribute to homelessness.

• Myth: Homelessness is a choice.

  Reality: Very few people “choose” to be homeless. The primary causes of homelessness are economic hardship, lack of affordable housing, unemployment, mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence, and systemic issues like discrimination and inadequate social safety nets.

• Myth: Homeless people are unemployed.

  Reality: Many people experiencing homelessness are employed. A lack of affordable housing, combined with low wages, can make it impossible for some individuals to escape homelessness despite having a job. There are also numerous barriers to employment, such as lack of access to stable housing, hygiene facilities, identification, transportation, and education.

• Myth: Homelessness is not a serious social problem.

  Reality: Homelessness is a significant social issue with broad impacts on public health, safety, and economic stability. People experiencing homelessness are at a higher risk of physical and mental health issues, substance abuse, and victimization. Addressing homelessness benefits society by reducing healthcare costs, crime, and other social services.

• Myth: Homeless people only need food and shelter.

  Reality: While food and shelter are immediate needs, individuals experiencing homelessness also require access to healthcare, mental health services, substance abuse treatment, education, employment opportunities, and social support systems to achieve long-term stability. There are many ways you can help people experiencing homelessness, including donating to reputable organizations, volunteering your time, and advocating for long-term solutions.

• Myth: Homeless shelters solve the problem of homelessness.

  Reality: Shelters provide temporary relief but are not a long-term solution. Permanent affordable housing, ongoing supportive services, and systemic changes are necessary to address the root causes of homelessness and prevent recurrence.

• Myth: Homelessness is only a result of personal failures.

  Reality: External factors like a lack of affordable housing, unemployment, systemic discrimination, and inadequate social services play a significant role in homelessness. Personal circumstances are often a result of these broader societal issues.

• Myth: There is nothing an individual can do to help someone who is experiencing homelessness.

  Reality: Anyone can make a difference by supporting local shelters and charities, volunteering, advocating for policy changes, donating goods or money, and treating individuals experiencing homelessness with dignity and respect. Simple acts like acknowledging someone’s existence or offering assistance can have a positive impact.

• Myth: If someone is experiencing homelessness, there’s nothing they can do.

  Reality: If someone begins experiencing homelessness, they should seek help immediately by contacting local shelters, social services, or organizations dedicated to assisting those experiencing homelessness. They can also call the national 2-1-1 hotline in the U.S. to be connected with local resources like shelter, food, and medical care.

Where to Sleep if Homeless in Arlington, VA – Contact PathForward to Get Started

If you are currently experiencing or are at risk of homelessness, PathForward is here to help! All are welcome at our Day Program, which includes free bagged meals, shelter during bad weather, clothing and laundry services, showers and more. If you are in need of a place to sleep, contact us to get started.