Each person has a very different perspective on homelessness. Unfortunately, there are many widespread misconceptions about homelessness and the cause of it. Here are four common myths about homelessness and the truths of homelessness that might be different than you would think. 

Myth #1: Homeless people don’t want to change.

Truth: Last year, we had 403 people complete a needs assessment upon arriving at our campuses. The assessment helped our staff to identify each person’s specific needs in the following areas –  physically, emotionally, spiritually, socially, and vocationally. We had 648 people graduate from the Make Progress phase of our program, and participate in services that prepared them to re-enter the world, and 349 people ended their homelessness and are now living self-sufficiently. You can read about our full Transformation Model here.

Myth #2: I can’t make a difference.

Truth: Every single donor, volunteer, and staff member makes a difference in the lives of those facing homelessness. Your donation helps to serve meals and provide services that help others create change in their lives, and that encourages them that someone else believes in them. Your support really does help change the world, one person at a time.

Myth #3: Homeless people don’t want to get a job.

Truth: Beginning in June 2019, Atlanta Mission partnered with Cara, a leading Chicago-based workforce development enterprise, to integrate their vocational training and job placement model, which achieves 70% one-year job retention rates at a livable rate of pay. Our implementation of their model is called Atlanta Mission Next Steps. Our Vocational Training Coaches work to help our clients gain skills, excel in the interview process, and connect with future employers. We’ve already had 50 graduates and plan to see 100 graduates per year.

Myth #4: Homeless shelters enable homelessness.

Truth: Our transformation model works to transform, through Christ, the lives of those facing homelessness. Our dedicated staff is committed to helping our clients identify the root causes of their homelessness and overcome any traumatic experiences so that by the time they leave our facility, they are equipped with the tools they need to be independent and the encouragement they need to permanently break the cycle of poverty in their lives.

Homelessness is a temporary circumstance, not a permanent condition. It could truly happen to anyone in the blink of an eye. For an even deeper understanding of the problem, click here to learn more.