- More than 500,000 people are homeless in America, according to a report released in September by the Council of Economic Advisers.
- In many cases, homelessness stems from a string of unfortunate events. But once someone is without a home, other issues can take hold, including mental and physical illnesses, isolation, and substance abuse.
- Here are five ways you can impact the lives of people living on the streets.
- Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.
Walk the streets of any major city in the US and you are likely to encounter people who are experiencing homelessness.
According to a report released in September by the Council of Economic Advisers, more than 500,000 people are homeless in America. About 200,000 of them are living without shelter on the streets.
In many cases, homelessness stems from a string of unfortunate events. A lack of support from family or friends can make it difficult for people struggling to get back on their feet. And once someone is homeless, other issues can take hold, including mental and physical illnesses, isolation, and substance abuse.
But there are actions you can take that could help. Here are five ways you can make an impact.
1. Educate yourself and others
The first, and perhaps most important thing you can do is to educate yourself about the root causes of homelessness and why it is so widespread. Then you can share that knowledge with others.
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development keeps vital statistics on homelessness around the country. The department also issues a comprehensive assessment report every year.
The National Alliance to End Homelessness provides helpful webinars, interactive tools, maps, and training materials to bring you to speed on the most important issues.
You can also follow Business Insider's and other news outlets' coverage of homeless issues.
It's worth remembering that those you can see on the streets are only a portion of people who are homeless. Many are sleeping on couches, in cars, or at shelters.
2. Donate to a charity
These are 12 organizations that received four out of four stars by Charity Navigator, an independent nonprofit that rates charities based on their financial management and accountability.
Here are links to their websites, listed in alphabetical order:
Coalition for the Homeless (Chicago)
Coalition for the Homeless (Florida)
Coalition for the Homeless (New York)
Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless
SAVE, A Friend To Homeless Animals
The Homeless Families Foundation
Transitions Homeless Recovery Center
Union Station Homeless Services
3. Volunteer
Sometimes it's best to go out and meet the people you hope to serve. This way, you can make connections and really help people.
During winter, collect gloves, hats, jackets, and other pieces of clothing from friends and family and give them to people sleeping on the streets. Winter boots can be particularly useful donations. Many homeless shelters or organizations accept in-kind donations, as well.
If you're so inclined, knit a scarf or hat. In many northern cities like Boston or Chicago, it can be brutally cold to travel outside, let alone sleep in the frigid temperatures.
You can also volunteer at soup kitchens that provide free food for those in need, or work shifts at a local homeless shelter. Many of the charities we listed, like the Coalition for the Homeless, have volunteer opportunities.
All you need to do is browse the website or give them a call to see what you can do in your community. You can also check out Volunteers for America for more ways to get involved.
4. Contact your lawmakers
Call, email, or send a letter to your elected officials to urge them to support legislation and funding measures that help combat homelessness.
You can browse through homelessness and emergency shelter-related legislation currently being considered in Congress here.
Homelessness is pervasive. It's not a new problem. This can make it difficult for members of Congress to realize the urgency of the matter. Your voice could help push them along.
5. Treat those you interact with like people
It's worth remembering that many different factors can cause a person to be homeless. And it can go along way to acknowledge people, make eye-contact, or say hello.