Discusses sources of homelessness, the difficulties homeless people encounter in their daily lives, attitudes toward the homeless, and the social and psychological impact upon children and adults of losing the social identity and security that a permanent home, however poor, provides. (GC)

Only the federal government has the power and resources to address the housing crisis. National policy should extend resources to grassroots groups which will design housing programs and policies according to local conditions. Important issues are: (1) preserving existing subsidized housing; (2) providing capital; (3) constructing affordable…

The homeless are becoming increasingly female, non-White, and youthful. The problem is a housing shortage complicated by poverty as shown in data from 12 cities where declines in low-income housing accompanied increases in the number of poor people. More housing must be provided even before other social ills are addressed. (VM)