Child at the Family Home
Who are the homeless? When I speak about homelessness in Arlington, this is often the question I begin with. The answer I typically receive is some version of the solitary, hungry man who sits on the curb asking for money. But consider this – almost 40 percent of the nation’s homeless are families. And within those families are 1.3 million children who experience the hardships of homelessness just as much as their parents.
Children who come to our shelters bring these troubles with them. Severe trauma, mental health needs, and illness are all increased by life on the streets. Because of this, we recognize the importance of meeting the specific needs of every child that enters our program.
Yet a troubling article from CNN claims that children’s quality of life may be declining nationwide due to the recent recession. According to the article, 21 percent of children will be living below the poverty line this year. The effects of financial insecurity are clear in all aspects of a child’s health – and in their success in school and later in life. The fact that the effects of homelessness on children are lifelong is what concerns me the most. Ultimately, it is the community that will bear the consequences if these 1.3 million children are left forgotten and without homes.
Tags: Children, Homelessness, News
Caroline Jones
Homelessness affects children in so many different ways, as I witnessed in the classroom as a pre-k teacher. It is wonderful to see organizations like Doorways active in addressing this issue in our community.
Rebecca~ Thank you for your comment. Let us know what you think about today’s blog post about Arlington being the “Best City for Families.”
~Doorways