Everyone has a very different perspective on homelessness. Unfortunately, there are many widespread myths and misconceptions about homelessness and the cause of it. We debunked four common myths in Part 1.

Below you’ll find four more common myths about homelessness and the truths of homelessness that might be different than you would think. 

Myth #1: Bad choices led them to homelessness.

People face homelessness for a variety of reasons, and one of the most common things we see is a lack of trustworthy relationships, not bad choices. For many people facing homelessness, there is a history of trauma and unhealthy relationships in their past and they haven’t been able to properly deal with it. Read why building trustworthy relationships is so important to those facing homelessness.

Myth #2: If they just got a job, they’d be fine.

For many, getting a job is difficult without transportation to get to the job. On top of that, many do not have proper clothes to wear to the job interviews. They also must have a form of identification, which is hard for some facing homelessness to find and get. Once they get a job, it may not be enough money to pay for rent. Our goal is to help our clients first address the underlying cause of their homelessness. Then, we can help them find employment and stable housing. Last year, we saw 54 clients obtain employment.

Myth #3: The majority of people experiencing homelessness are men.

Last year, close to 4,000 women and children came to us seeking shelter. My Sister’s House is our shelter for only women and children. We are also opening a new shelter for women and children in August called Restoration House. You can read more about the new shelter here.

Myth #4: The majority of people experiencing homelessness abuse alcohol and drugs.

Of the vulnerable men and women we serve, 28% have experienced drug or alcohol abuse. The National Coalition for the Homeless reports that “38% of homeless people are alcohol dependent, and 26% are dependent on other harmful chemicals.” It is certainly not the majority, and we have counselors ready to help those looking to overcome their addictions. Plus, The Potter’s House, our facility in Jefferson, GA, focuses on helping men facing alcohol or drug addiction.