The Code of Homelessness

“A Knot of Homelessness at the Nation’s Seat of Power” is as important for what it doesn’t say as for what it does. No matter how much affordable housing is built, it will never be enough. No matter how much homeless prevention programs are expanded, they will only forestall what is likely inevitable.

Why?

Homelessness is code for housing and financial instability. Affordability is only part of the solution. Roughly half of homeless adults are without a high school degree, and even greater numbers have limited work experience. Solutions that are not focused on education and employment unintentionally make limited rental vouchers revolving doors back to shelter and affordable housing out of reach for most of the homeless.

RALPH NUNEZ
President, Institute for Children,
Poverty and Homelessness