What we need to know about homelessness:
They are people first. There are times when folks, who do not have a permanent, safe address, lose their individuality and identity and are grouped into the ubiquitous collection of “homeless.” This resembles the “gallbladder in 203” that occasionally happens in health care – someone becomes defined by their diagnosis. We don’t want to see folks defined by homelessness. It is paramount that we address the circumstances that have led to this situation and to always remember that these folks are people first.
I have been asked if there is a particular stereotype that can be attached to those who are homeless and it is a resounding “no.” Homelessness can happen to those who are currently enjoying a very comfortable income/lifestyle. Divorce, domestic violence, job loss and serious health issues can all push a single person or family into homelessness very quickly and, remember, there are those in our community who are working but living in their car.
There is a myth that homeless people really don’t want to be housed and choose to be homeless. There may be folks who might tolerate a summer “camping experience” for a short time, but that ends when the harsh winter weather arrives. More likely though, it is the challenge of navigating through a system that can throw up barriers, so what appears to be them not wanting housing is actually them not being able to find their way through the system.
Homelessness is the outcome of a number of factors that have built up over time. Mental health and addictions are sometimes a root cause. Incarceration can impede an individual’s ability to gain employment or achieve approval for rent because of the stigma attached to being an “ex-con.”
We were very fortunate to have had a person with a deep understanding of homelessness give a presentation on what he feels is one of the major factors leading into it and he said “broken relationships.” The relationships can be at the family level, workplace level, friendship level but they all have the same thing in common – a broken relationship that leaves the person without the supports they need. Another aspect may be linked to seniors who lose their life partner and the financial supports coupled with the loss of the emotional support. Life can spiral down very quickly when these supports are suddenly gone. This demographic has been tracked as seeing the highest number of people experiencing homelessness for the first time.
Those with lived experiences with homelessness have described it as being a very isolating and lonely existence and they feel ashamed of where their lives have taken them. This is where the community can come in to help them, whether it is to donate clean clothes or make meals for the folks who don’t have easy access to either. Please stay tuned as the plans for another Community Conversation around homelessness is being scheduled for October.
Suzan Krecsy is the director of the St. Albert Food Bank.
