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Social Factors and Ending Homelessness Around the World
In the effort of ending homelessness around the world, shelters are only the tip of the iceberg. Social factors such as addiction, family tragedy, job loss, domestic violence, mental illness, and more play a heavy part in the cause of homelessness. The common denominator is a major crack in their life foundation. Many people focus solely on structural factors, like a lack of low-cost housing.
Why are social factors so important?
Often, when those affected by homelessness begin to pursue housing in an effort to stabilize themselves, there’s no support system to help them. Loneliness, relapse, and a general lack of connection can cause these individuals to end up back on the street. Structural support cannot provide community. For most of these people, the only community they know are other people facing homelessness. Without stable relationships, they lack the support they need.
To transition out of homelessness, people need relationships. Social connectedness gives people the support systems to address mental illness, recover from substance abuse, and find purpose in the community.
In order for social connectedness to work, we have to remove the stigma against homelessness. That starts with us.
Examples of Ending Homelessness around the World
A few countries have taken steps as a nation with social connectedness. Both Denmark and Scotland have seen progress towards ending homelessness.
Denmark
Denmark is a country that has helped pave the way in social connectedness and social inclusion. The Danish government has set values in helping those who experience social disadvantages, such as homelessness. Policy has been developed to help; for example, Denmark works with those experiencing homelessness, alcohol and substance abuse, and mental illness to find their place in employment and society at large.
Scotland
Scotland has also made strides in ending homelessness. With their Social Inclusion Division, they aim to end poverty in this generation of children. Focusing on education and social connectedness, their goals include full employment in Scotland and having every 19 year old involved in work, training or further education.
Local efforts
We realize that a holistic approach is necessary for transformation. That’s why we offer services such as:
We meet each person where they are, in their unique circumstances, to provide customized services to help them overcome the cause of their homelessness. From personal to professional to spiritual development, our programs are multi-pronged and multi-layered. For us, it’s about a complete life transformation. That is what ends homelessness.
If you’d like to help support our cause and provide hope and transformation to those facing homelessness, click here.
