Different Types Of Homeless Shelters
Why so many homeless shelters?
Studies conducted by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) have reported that nearly 5 million Americans currently qualify for admission to homeless shelters. Furthermore, according to HUD statistics, one out of every 50 children in America now requires homeless services.
The causes of homelessness are many
Rarely does being rendered homeless occur in a vacuum. We now know that homelessness is often the result of an unexpected mix of destabilizing forces, such as losing a job, suffering a debilitating injury, and going through a painful divorce.
In an attempt to reduce the emotional pain, stress, anxiety, and depression, a person without the support of family and friends become isolated and self-destructive. Many turn to alcohol and drugs to squelch their pain.
These circumstances quickly snowball into an emotional crisis that results in poverty and homelessness.
Current economic decline
As we enter 2023, our nation’s recessionary conditions are increasing the homeless populations across the country, resulting in shelters experiencing up to three times the number of people on their waiting lists. Those that cannot find temporary homeless shelters sleep in places not meant for habitation, such as abandoned buildings.
Homeless shelters – no income
Homeless shelters are considered the primary refuge for the homeless, providing them with rest, shelter, and meals. These primary shelters typically expect their guests to vacate in the morning by locating alternative shelters elsewhere during the day, returning for an evening meal, and sleeping. Curfews vary widely but tend to be earlier than adults typically might return home.
Nationally, it is estimated that there are over 3,500 homeless shelters. As financial hardship among Americans continues to increase, it is estimated that the need for operating these shelters will continue to increase.
Day shelters – no income – low income
Daytime homeless shelters are usually where the homeless go when they cannot stay inside at their nighttime sleeping shelter during the day.
Day shelters provide the homeless with temporary short-term shelter. The typical day shelter offers meals, showers, and laundry. Some homeless shelters are now beginning to provide access to Internet services.
Admission is mostly based on a first-come basis
The Day Shelter intake process usually includes a short interview and needs assessment. Check with your local shelter to obtain the details concerning their admission requirements, intake procedures, and hours of operation.
Violence or Women’s Shelters
These shelters support women and their children facing domestic abuse.
Faith-based Shelters
These shelters provide support and basic protection to the homeless community based on religious values of generosity and compassion.
Youth Shelters
These shelters provide a safe place for rest and food for young people under the age of 21 who do not have a home that is conducive to their survival and safety.
Family Shelters
These shelters are communal spaces that aid families that do not have the financial means to house and feed themselves.
Wet shelters
These shelters provide housing to homeless alcoholics and allow them to consume alcohol within the shelter to hopefully connect them with rehabilitative services when they leave the shelter.
Transitional housing shelters
These are temporary housing for those who are transitioning between homes and require the support of shelter and food in the interim. Transitional housing usually includes services that help people get back on their feet by offering assistance with finding employment and available social benefits.
While transitional housing is considered temporary, the stay can vary much longer depending on the person’s financial needs and health.
As poverty levels continue to rise, it is estimated that the number of homeless shelters will increase as well
If you are homeless, at risk of becoming homeless, or know someone that is homeless, information and assistance are available.
