Why Don’t the Houseless Just Go to Shelters?

Before I discuss different issues concerning legislation for the unhoused, I feel it is necessary to address why the current system isn’t the proper solution. You maybe be wondering:

Why can’t the unhoused just go to homeless shelters?

Well, although this problem tends to be simplified, there are many complex reasons why people are forced to remain in their current conditions. 

To provide context, I will list some reason why shelters are not everyone’s best option. Yet, it is necessary to keep in mind the individuality of each situation. 

1.) Most congregate shelters are gender-specific, meaning not all families, couples, or friends could stay together. It would be very hard to separate from the only people you know, to be surrounded by strangers. 

2.) Work schedules may not align with congregate shelter hours. Because it can be very hard for the unhoused to find jobs, they would prioritize work over the opportunity to enter a shelter.

3.) Most shelters do not allow pets. Think about how much you love your pets. Now, this love is amplified for the unhoused, because their pet could be the only thing left from their past, and their only companion. Likewise, pets can be very attached to their owners. 

4.) People who have experienced trauma may have difficulty being around strangers. This is especially difficult for those with mental health struggles. 

5.) Limits may be placed on the quantity of items you bring, in some cases only allowing a backpack.

6.) Safety can also be a concern, since there are different personalities in an enclosed space.

7.) Fear of getting bed bugs or lice in a communal setting. For the standard person, bed bugs and lice are not seen as major issues. But, for the unhoused, this could be detrimental because they do not have access to the same care most people do. 

8.) Inability to sleep when it’s noisy.

Also, people entering shelters have most likely been exposed to the flu or COVID. So, these diseases are able to quickly spread throughout shelters.

In analysis, although it may seem illogical that some unhoused individuals choose to remain on the streets, there are many reasons for their decision. So, before we delve deeper into this prevalent issue, it is important to note the multitudes of circumstances that are occurring within our society.