This report will focus on the homeless problem.
This report will be divided into three primary sections. First, an overview of the homeless situation within the United States will be given. This overview will provide a perspective for the later sections.
Second, solutions to this widespread and growing problem will be offered. Here, the solutions are based upon methods/solutions that are and are not working in metropolitan areas to reduce the numbers of homeless.
Third, a conclusion and synthesis section will present global implications of the problem and solutions to the problem. A framework for understanding the dichotomy between the ôhavesö and the ôhave notsö will be explored.
Why does the United states, one of the richest countries in the world, allow millions of its citizens to exist without even the basic necessities of life û food, shelter, and clothing? Perhaps the development, growth and expansion of a permanent underclass serves to assist in the maintenance of the status quo.
THE HOMELESS IN THE UNITED STATES: A SURVEY OF THE ISSUE
The homeless in the United states are becoming a pervasive and stationary element in our society. The problem of finding basic necessitiesû-shelter, clothing, and food for the millions of homeless has extended beyond the scope of city officials, social service agencies, civic groups, and even the Federal Government.
Former President Reagan gives us an example of inattention, at the Federal level, to the homeless problem. President Reagan did not issue a public statement claiming Federal responsibility for the homeless in America. Reports indicated that Reagan made only five references to the homeless during his second term. These reference were responses to direct questions raised at press conferences (Whitman, 1988, p. 35).
The combination of a lack of commitment and attention to and the steadily growing numbers of homeless in need of assis...