Homelessness is a complex issue affecting many in our communities, and it often stems from a combination of circumstances. While it’s easy to focus on the surface-level problems, the true causes are usually a mix of systemic, personal, and financial factors. Understanding these causes with compassion is crucial in helping us make a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness.

How is Homelessness Defined?

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.

Top 10 Causes of Homelessness in Arlington, Virginia

There are many reasons an individual can become homeless – often someone experiences homelessness due to a combination of multiple factors. What’s important to remember is that nobody chooses to experience homelessness.

At PathForward, we believe it’s essential to approach this issue holistically, understanding that homelessness impacts people physically, mentally, and emotionally. Homelessness is generally the result of unmet needs and lack of accessible resources.

The top causes of homelessness include:

1. Economic Hardship

When unexpected financial challenges arise—such as job loss, reduced hours, or sudden medical bills—people may find themselves unable to keep up with housing costs. Without sufficient savings or support, these financial setbacks can quickly lead to homelessness.

2. Lack of Affordable Housing

With housing prices on the rise, finding affordable and accessible housing has become increasingly difficult for low-income residents. More than half of the rental population spends more than 30% of their income on rent, putting them at greater risk of losing their housing when faced with unexpected expenses.

3. Low Wages and Job Instability

Even for those who are employed, the minimum wage and part-time work often aren’t enough to cover basic living expenses. When job loss or reduced hours occur, families with little to no savings can find themselves unable to make rent or pay bills.

4. Domestic Violence

For many individuals, leaving an abusive home means facing homelessness. Escaping domestic violence often requires immediate relocation, and the lack of affordable housing or shelter space can leave survivors with nowhere to turn.

5. Mental Health Challenges

Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and PTSD can interfere with a person’s ability to maintain employment and housing. Without adequate access to mental health care and support, many individuals are at higher risk for homelessness when their condition worsens.

6. Substance Use Disorders

Addiction can lead to a loss of employment, strained relationships, and financial instability, all of which increase the risk of homelessness. It’s also not uncommon for those experiencing homelessness to struggle with substance use as a way of coping with the harsh realities of their situation, creating a cycle that’s difficult to break.

7. Health Crises and Lack of Insurance

Unexpected medical bills or chronic health issues can drain a person’s finances quickly. Without health insurance or the ability to work due to illness, many people find themselves choosing between paying for healthcare or their home.

8. Evictions

Rising rent prices and stagnant wages have made it increasingly difficult for individuals to keep up with payments. A sudden job loss, medical emergency, or even a landlord raising the rent can lead to eviction, leaving families with nowhere to go.

9. Systemic Racism and Discrimination

Communities of color, particularly Black and Latino populations, face disproportionate barriers to stable housing and employment due to long-standing systemic inequalities. These barriers often translate to higher rates of homelessness.

10. Natural Disasters

Natural disasters, such as floods, hurricanes, and wildfires, can displace individuals and families, leaving them without a home. Those already struggling with housing insecurity are particularly vulnerable, as they may lack the resources to recover quickly. The devastation caused by these events can result in loss of property, employment, and financial stability, pushing people into homelessness when they have no place to turn for support.

How You Can Help People Experiencing Homelessness

Helping the homeless involves more than just providing immediate relief – it also requires addressing the underlying causes of homelessness and offering long-term support.

Below are our top 3 recommended ways to address both the immediate and long-term needs of people experiencing homelessness in Arlington, Virginia:

1. Give Funding

A financial donation to PathForward goes directly towards providing life-saving services to those in need. Whether it’s a one-time gift or a recurring contribution, your support will have an immediate and measurable impact. Financial gifts support healthcare services, our emergency shelter and housing programs, and job training and employment services. Learn more here

2. Give Basic Necessities

Everyone deserves access to the basics of survival, including nutritious food and personal hygiene items. By addressing these basic needs, we help people experiencing homelessness regain stability and take critical steps toward rebuilding their lives. At PathForward, we accept donations of clothing, food, gift cards, personal hygiene items, housewares, and medical supplies. Learn more here

3. Give Your Time

Organizations like PathForward rely on volunteers to assist with tasks like serving meals, organizing donations, or mentoring. Volunteering allows you to make a direct impact and better understand the challenges people experiencing homelessness face. Your involvement can also inspire others to get involved. Interested in volunteering in Arlington, VA? Apply to volunteer with PathForward