Equity Matters
People who are homeless often face unfair judgment, which can make it harder for them to find a steady job. Certain rules and laws can also make it harder for people to find housing. For example, someone with a criminal record may not be able to find public housing or rent a house. Or public housing may force family members to move out if the individual is allowed to stay.
Without stable housing, it is harder to get regular medical care and to stay safe. As a result, being homeless can lead to poor health.
People with mental health challenges, people with disabilities, youth, LGBTQ+ individuals and veterans are more likely to experience homelessness.[]
[H136] No Second Chance: People with Criminal Records Denied Access to Public Housing. (2004). Human Rights Watch. https://www.hrw.org/report/2004/11/18/no-second-chance/people-criminal-records-denied-access-public-housing
[H137] Knopf-Amelung, S. (2013). Incarceration & homelessness: A revolving door of risk. Focus, 2(2), 1-5. https://nhchc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/infocus_incarceration_nov2013.pdf