WHAT IS HOMELESSNESS?

Homelessness is much more than not having a place to sleep at night. It is about not having a home that is safe, stable and adequate. A home that does not allow one to rest, grow, build and maintain relationships, and be a part of their community.

Homelessness is not a person or characteristic, but a situation that any person can find themselves in. Homelessness is experienced by people of all ages, ethnicity and status.

Homelessness affects all of us.

Common Causes Of Homelessness

Homelessness is a complex issue stemming from a range of economic, social and intergenerational challenges, including:

• Domestic Violence
• Mental Health
• Loss Of Family And Social Supports
• Loss Or Reduction Of Income

In addition to the direct impacts homelessness can have on a family unit, it is an issue that has wider repercussions on the health, education, cultural and social fabric of our entire community.

In Australia, there are over 100,000 people including children experiencing a form of homelessness. Mareeba Community Housing Company provides support to over 300 people per annum, who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness in the Mareeba and Atherton Tablelands area.

Types Of Homelessness

Homelessness is not only sleeping outdoors or in a car; people experiencing homelessness may also seek shelter from the following:

• Family & Friends
• Improvised Dwellings
• Crisis Shelters
• Cheap Hotel Rooms
• Abandoned Homes Or Buildings.

Not all of these types of homelessness are easily identified, but the people experiencing the hardships of secondary homelessness still require support to find secure housing arrangements.