Economics of Homelessness

Being a student of Simon Fraser University, commuting to the Surrey campus using the SkyTrain is a common experience. Another common experience is encountering homeless people while going from the station to campus building. Although the issue of homelessness is one that has existed forever, in some form or another, with news of the economic recession deepening, it casts this issue into a new, harsher light. While the reasons for the recession are numerous and multi-faceted, it has an immediate effect on those that are homeless. 
 
While some people brush off the plight of those suffering from homelessness, considering them to only require a little motivation and direction in securing a job with which to obtain a stable address and a consistent source of food. To these same people it is seen as unnecessary, or unwise, to offer money, since this may be used for purposes they deem unessential, such as alcohol and drugs. Furthermore, homeless people may be deemed undeserving pan handlers, who do not contribute to society as a whole.

On the other hand, people may be forced onto the street due to sudden unexpected unemployment, mental or psychological disorders or the lack of affordable housing. With each of these cases, the factors contributing to a higher risk of potential homelessness are not directly related to lack of motivation or direction in life. Compounded by the effects of the global recession, it is even more difficult to overcome these issues, whether or not a person earns a low income.
 
Thus, homelessness results due to a culmination of complex circumstances with people having to balance the necessities and basic needs in life, between the wants. Through a focused attempt, even with a deepening recession, the issue of homelessness may be curtailed enough to avoid forcing more people on to the streets, rather into more productive positions in society.