Stigma and misconceptions exist around many issues with deeply social and systematic roots. Homelessness is one of those issues. As a sociologist, I am been trained to look beyond the individual to understand the nature and patterns of endemic inequality. As I was going through my undergraduate and graduate studies I have begun to realize that my perspectives are the result of years of education and the development of critical thinking skills. As an individual, I strive daily to challenge my own thoughts and actions, breaking down social norms to understand their origins. The problem is that my viewpoint and knowledge of issues are a result of privilege as a highly educated person.

The myths about homelessness that I see as false and nonsensical, are not shared universally. I am also not perfect. By speaking to caseworkers partnered with Siemer, I am also breaking down my own existing biases. So, for the benefit of those reading this blog, I want to share some of the reasons why the families served by Siemer have become homeless.

Most of the families at-risk for homelessness or those that are currently homeless, are single parents with only one income to support their families. These folx are not welfare kings or queens living beyond their means or defrauding the government. A family does not lose their housing because they are using their money to paint the town red. These parents make minimum wage with no benefits and still need to pay rent, bills, grocery expenses, childcare, and medical needs like anyone else. Wasteful spending and recreation are the last thing on the minds of those that are trying to keep their heads above water.

Simply put, minimum wage cannot even meet the minimum requirements to sustain necessities. Income inequality makes life extremely precarious. An unexpected car repair, a medical issue, loss of work hours, or a loss of a job can send these families toward a tailspin. They are forced to make tradeoffs between basic needs: Do I stay from home with my sick child or do I lose my job? Do I repair my car, or do I pay rent? Do I pay my bills or keep food in the house?

While low income may be a driving force toward housing instability, improving a family’s income is easier said than done. These families have histories of mental illness, trauma, incarceration, and are usually a descendant from a long line of generational poverty. The issues that lead to homelessness are complex and therefore, require complex solutions. Blaming homelessness on an individual’s character flaws is a way for us to turn a blind eye to the true bases of homelessness; it is an easy and thoughtless out.

Working at Siemer has been an opportunity to challenge my own understanding of homelessness. So, next time you see a homeless person or family on the street I invite you to think beyond the superficial.