The Politics of Homelessness

A Call to Action

Homelessness in America has grown over the past decade despite public concern and response. The federal government has offered some aid for emergency relief measures, but it has not implemented any long-term solutions to homelessness. The public concern must be channeled into demands for a solution to homelessness or the government will not respond.

This article reviews the history of homelessness in the United States, outlines the causes of homelessness, summarizes remedial action taken by the government, and provides an agenda for moving beyond emergency relief to permanent solutions. The article includes strategies for progress and a plea for action.

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