TREATMENT OF HOMELESS CHILDREN: EVOLUTION OF POLICY
This research examines the evolution of policy related to the treatment of homeless children. Policy within the context of this research refers to initiatives that tend to cause the numbers of homeless children to increase or decrease, as well as to initiatives designed to provide assistance or care to children after they become homeless. The primary period of interest in this research is from 1980 onward, although earlier policies affecting homeless children also are examined.
Early Approaches to Dealing With Homeless Children
An asylum was established for homeless girls by Trajan in ancient Rome to prevent their being sold into slavery (Simpson, 1987, p. 135). The first pressing need for the care of homeless children, however, developed subsequent to the "outlawing of infanticide by the early Christian church" (Simpson, 1987, p. 136). The problem of homelessness for children was exacerbated by the short life expectancy of adults.
Finally, in the twelfth century, Guy de Montpellier established the Order of the Holy Spirit to care for homeless children in France (Simpson, 1987, p. 136). Soon thereafter, Pope Innocent III called upon de Montpellier to establish a branch of the order in Rome.
Until the time of the Reformation, churches provided the only care available for homeless children. During the reign of Elizabeth I, however, the Poor Relief Act led to the establishment of state-operated community nurseries that cared for homeless children until they were considered to be old enough to be placed for work with adult sponsors (Simpson, 1987, p. 136).
The homeless children exploded during the Industrial Revolution, however, and the rudimentary system caring for such children collapsed (Simpson, 1987, p. 136). The presence of these children on the street was perceived as a threat to the better off members of society, and English authorities began housing hom...