There is a group of people experiencing homelessness that isn’t talked about enough – single fathers. 

According to ResearchGate, 15% of the 2.5 million children experiencing homelessness in the United States come from single-father families. This is around 600,000 single-father families every year facing homelessness.

600,000 single father families face homelessness every year in the U.S.

The problem is that many shelters are not set up to serve these single fathers. They will take the father, but not the father with his kids, especially if he has a daughter. 

Most shelters are set up for women and children or men – not men with children. This is because many shelters separate men and women in an effort to ensure everyone feels safe. But this leaves single fathers facing a crossroads – do they separate from their kids or stay on the streets with them? Or do they hope that the few spaces available for single fathers have a bed for them to stay for the night?

Single fathers facing homelessness face a lot of unique challenges. Single fathers alone face challenges, but when you add in the challenge of homelessness, it can be really tough. 

They have no spousal support, they are struggling to find a home, and likely trying to find a job to help support their family. On top of all of this, they must take care of their kids and keep them safe. It’s not easy and the stress can wear on the men.

We’ve put together a list of shelters here with information on intake, addresses, and phone numbers. We’re also always available to help in any way we can. If you are or know of a single father facing homelessness, please give us a call: 404-588-4000.