The Real Struggles of Homeless People in Shared Room Housing and Shelters
For many, securing a spot in shared room housing or a shelter is a critical step toward stability. The struggle to motivate them to pursue housing is a challenge in itself. However, this transition often comes with its own set of difficulties that can affect their journey towards permanent housing and self-sufficiency.
1. Privacy and Personal Space:
- Individuals often have to share their living spaces with strangers, which can be uncomfortable and stressful.
- The challenge for them to go to a shelter and leave the streets is significant enough. The lack of privacy can hinder personal relaxation, lead to conflicts, and exacerbate mental health issues. Many end up back on the streets within 30 days.
2. Safety and Security Concerns:
- Shared rooms can sometimes have unsafe conditions, including theft and violence.
- Residents often have to sleep with one eye open to protect their belongings. This constant vigilance creates stress, making them prefer the streets or woods where they feel safer.
3. Health and Hygiene:
- Sanitary conditions are always a concern and should be voiced.
- Issues such as bedbugs are prevalent in motels, hotels, shelters, and sober houses. Learning how to check for bedbugs before moving in is crucial. Learn more about bedbugs by Clicking here.
4. Mental Health Struggles:
- Many individuals face ongoing mental health issues, exacerbated by the stress of shared living environments.
- Roommates often complain about disturbances, such as talking to oneself all night. Some individuals mask their mental illness with drugs or alcohol.
5. Substance Abuse Issues:
- Addiction is the biggest problem among chronically homeless individuals.
- The ability to get them off the streets is hindered until the addiction is addressed. This often takes years of ministering to the homeless addict until they are ready for help. Sadly, some do not survive, leaving a hole in our hearts.
If you have a loved one who has a substance abuse problem, it is not your fault.
Remember the three C’s:
- We can’t control it.
- We didn’t cause it.
- We can’t cure it.
The biggest realization is: THE ONLY WAY WE KNOW HOW TO DEAL WITH OUR PROBLEMS IS TO DRINK OR USE DRUGS! We have more success getting people into detox and long-term rehab before securing housing.
6. Limited Resources and Support:
- Shelters often have limited funding and resources, leading to inadequate support services.
- Without access to comprehensive support, including counseling, job training, and healthcare, achieving long-term stability is challenging.
7. Bureaucratic Barriers:
- Navigating the bureaucratic processes for housing, employment, and benefits can be overwhelming.
- Without proper guidance, individuals may struggle to access the necessary services.
8. Dependency and Institutionalization:
- Prolonged homelessness leads to a comfort zone that makes it more difficult to transition to shelter.
- The system also hinders the development of self-sufficiency. Residents might struggle to transition to independent living due to a lack of skills or confidence.
9. Bullies in Shelters:
- Some shelter workers can be rude bullies, with no consideration for the residents. This issue needs to be addressed.
- A local newspaper reporter told me they can't even run a story about this problem because it's so widespread, and they wouldn't be able to handle the calls from people trapped in shelters with administrative bullies.
Conclusion:
The journey to stability for homeless individuals is complex, even after securing temporary housing. There are more homeless individuals in cars, tents, campsites, and streets, with homelessness lasting from days to decades. The system and homeless organizations are short-staffed, underfunded, and need community support.
How You Can Help:
HomelessLongIsland is dedicated to helping the homeless get off the streets. We are faith-based and centered on the love of Jesus of Nazareth. To help us support those in need, click here.
Thank you
Chaplain Steven Crawford
(631) 260-1363
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