MYTH
Not many children are homeless
FACT
Children make up about 15% of the homeless population. Families with children is the fastest growing group of homeless. One child in five in the United States Lives below the poverty line. Many homeless children are alone, eithers runaway's or "throw away's"
MYTH
Most of them are Mentally Ill
FACT
The mentally ill comprise about 25% of the national homeless. It shoul be noted that this number includes those who are suffering from DEPRESSION, some of which may be situational rather than a true disorder
MYTH
They are heavy drug and alcohol abusers
FACT
Some homeless are substance abusers; statistics show that one in four. Many of these are included in the 25% who are mentally ill.
MYTH
They want to be that way
FACT
Less than 6% of homeless are there by choice
MYTH
They are to blame for their own situation
FACT
Most homeless are victims. Some have suffered from child abuse or violence. 15% are children. Many have lost their jobs after years of employment. All have lost their homes.
MYTH
They are dangerous
FACT
In general, the homeless are among the least threatening group in our society. If anything they are the victims of crimes, not the perpetrators.
MYTH
The Homeless are only in large urban areas
FACT
The homeless are found not only in large cities, but in small towns, rural areas, and affluent suburbs.
