The Myth of Choice
Too many of us believe that homelessness is simply the result of an individual’s poor decision-making. This widespread assumption inevitably leads to the feeling that it is their choice, instead of acknowledging and fixing the complex and systemic issues that cause and maintain homelessness. I like to say that if someone chose homelessness, what were the other choices they had?
In my experience, homelessness is more likely to be caused by our collective failure to prioritize customized solutions and support systems for the individuals who need them most. A lot of my friends in the street were in homeless shelters as kids. Many have lost jobs that once paid a living wage but either disappeared during the pandemic or the pay just can’t keep up with the rising cost of living in the area. Physical illness or disability, a death in the household, mental illness, rent increases, substance use disorders, domestic violence or abuse, and systematic barriers that predominantly impact communities of color and people living in poverty all contribute to the rising tide of homelessness in the United States.
I am now more convinced than ever before that even those who “choose” to fight the current of homelessness by pitching tents on sidewalks, or sleeping in their vehicles or the subway, are playing the cards they’ve been dealt rather than playing the cards they want.
Many public and private resources exist for the unhoused community, but they are often difficult to access. Bureaucratic barriers and logistical logjams can even limit one’s ability to maintain momentum as their life improves. People can also face the psychological component of hopelessness. How do you move forward when you have no hope that there’s anything on the other side that’s attainable?
At City Relief, we believe that building relationships, providing hope, and advocating for our guests is the first step in helping someone. Our outreaches provide people with a hot meal and much-needed supplies, and our life care coordinators connect people to vital resources eight times per week in New York and New Jersey. Try looking into the resources available for someone experiencing homelessness in your community and find out what options are available to people for help.
We believe that everyone deserves a safe, stable home. Let's work together to ensure that happens.
With gratitude,
Josiah Haken
