Homelessness

Have you ever seen a homeless person and wondered what their story is? 

Have you ever saw a homeless person and thought they were under the influence of drugs or alcohol?

Living in Humboldt County the majority of my life, I have seen a lot of homeless people. I have also traveled and seen a lot of homeless people as well. I am aware that drug abuse has a lot to do with homelessness but I don't think every homeless person is a drug abuser. There are so many different factors to contribute to homeless but it seems like a majority of people believe that homeless people are alcoholic drug abusers. 

There may be a high amount of homeless people that abuse drugs but all homeless people are not drug abusers. For some people, homelessness began when they were still in their youth and for others, it began in their adulthood. 

Here in Humboldt County, there are a variety of different factors that contribute to homelessness. For one, homelessness does occur during youth and this can create a lifestyle for the future of the youth that experience homelessness at a younger age. Another factor that is present in Humboldt County that contributes to homelessness is the low population and job opportunities. This area is not a very big area and many people have a difficult time finding employment in this specific area, especially if you don't have work experience or an education. 

How is a homeless child supposed to obtain an education while trying to live and make ends meet?

How is a homeless adult supposed to shower and clean up for job interviews or meetings?

What is a homeless person going to put down for a mailing address or home address?

I believe there are a number of factors that contribute to homelessness and these factors need to be acknowledged in order to assist the homeless population and attempt to decrease the number of people experiencing homelessness and getting stuck in the state of homelessness.