Working by, with, and through organizations committed to homeless outreach and rehousing, the Buckhead Coalition and its members seek to relieve the suffering of our neighbors experiencing homelessness. Our Homelessness Committee understands the importance of helping Coalition members and others in the Buckhead Community understand the causes of homelessness, which organizations and institutions are working on the solutions, and what each of us can do about it.
All that most people know about homelessness is what they see and what they see are those on the streets with the greatest barriers to overcome. Read below to learn more.
Understanding Homelessness in Atlanta
Homelessness in Atlanta is a complex issue rooted in a web of social, economic, and personal challenges. People find themselves homeless in the city for various reasons, often undergoing a painful journey of disconnection and adversity.
One common thread among individuals experiencing homelessness in Atlanta is the alienation from their families and primary support networks. This disconnection can occur due to a variety of reasons, including strained relationships, family breakdowns, or the lack of a stable support system. In some cases, substance abuse, mental health issues, or conflicts may contribute to these estrangements. As a result, many find themselves without a safety net, leaving them vulnerable to the harsh realities of homelessness.
Contrary to what many of us assume from our experiences encountering the homeless on the streets, the majority of the people in Atlanta experiencing homelessness have neither a substance abuse problem nor a mental disability. But approximately one-third of Atlanta's homeless population does grapple with addiction or mental health challenges. These conditions are both a cause and a consequence of homelessness. Individuals experiencing these struggles often face barriers to accessing appropriate treatment and support. The cycle of homelessness can exacerbate these challenges, making it even more challenging to break free from the streets.
Homelessness has many contributing factors but by far the most significant is the lack of affordable housing. There is significant research that supports this assertion and if one looks at the communities across the country with the most pressing homelessness problems you will find a severe shortage of affordable housing.
Barriers to Gaining Housing
After experiencing homelessness, often because of an inability to continue to afford the housing they once enjoyed, individuals often face formidable barriers that hinder their ability to secure stable housing.
Diminished Credit
Many homeless individuals have poor or nonexistent credit histories. This can make it challenging to qualify for rental housing, as landlords often require credit checks and security deposits. Without a stable residence, rebuilding credit becomes a daunting task.
Criminal Backgrounds
A significant portion of the homeless population in Atlanta has criminal records. Moreover, approximately one third of all Georgians have a criminal record. This criminal history can make it difficult to find landlords willing to rent to them, perpetuating the cycle of homelessness. While rehabilitation and reintegration are essential, the barriers remain substantial.
Limited Employment Opportunities
Homelessness often coincides with unemployment or underemployment. Finding steady work without a stable address is a considerable hurdle. Without income, individuals struggle to afford housing and are at risk of prolonged homelessness.
Lack of Affordable Housing
Atlanta, like many other urban centers, faces a shortage of affordable housing options. High rental costs and limited availability of low-income housing exacerbate the difficulty of securing stable housing for homeless individuals and families.
Summary
In summary, homelessness in Atlanta is a multifaceted issue marked by disconnection from support networks, substantial barriers to housing, and a significant prevalence of mental health and addiction challenges. Addressing homelessness in the city requires a comprehensive approach that not only provides housing but also addresses the underlying causes and supports individuals in rebuilding their lives. This includes strengthening the social safety net, expanding affordable housing options, and increasing access to mental health and addiction services. By recognizing the complexities of homelessness in Atlanta, we can work together to develop effective solutions and offer hope and stability to those experiencing homelessness.
Get Involved and Make a Difference
By taking action through volunteering, donating, or advocating, you can play a crucial role in helping Atlanta's homeless population access the support they need to regain stability and hope for a brighter future.