Homelessness and Poverty

What is the definition of homelessness?

People who lack safe, stable, and appropriate places to live.

What are some living situations that classify individuals as homeless?

Living in shelters, doubled up, overcrowded situations, motels, or temporary enclosures like tents.

What is considered 'above the poverty level'?

A household income above 100% of their poverty threshold.

What is the definition of 'near poverty'?

Income above 100% but below 125% of the poverty threshold.

What income level is classified as 'in poverty'?

Households with incomes at or below 100% of their poverty threshold.

What is 'deep poverty'?

Household incomes below 50% of their poverty threshold.

What are some common predictors of homelessness?

Lack of affordable housing, economic insecurity, domestic violence, mental illness, and substance abuse.

How does childhood adversity relate to adult homelessness?

Higher levels of childhood adversity increase the likelihood of experiencing homelessness in adulthood.

What percentage of children lived in low-income families in 2017?

About 39 percent of children under age 18.

What is a significant factor leading to homelessness among families with children?

Financial hardships and the threat of eviction.

What impact does domestic violence have on homelessness?

It creates vulnerability to homelessness, especially among women and children.

What is the relationship between eviction rates and households with children?

Families with children are more likely to face eviction compared to households without children.

What is a 'worst-case housing need'?

Families who are renters with very low incomes and do not receive government housing assistance.

What is the federal poverty level (FPL) for a family of 1 in 2019?

$12,490.

What is the federal poverty level (FPL) for a family of 4 in 2019?

$25,100.

What are some consequences of paying more than half of household income for rent?

It can lead to devastating consequences, including homelessness.

What percentage of women with children experiencing homelessness have faced domestic violence?

More than 80%.

What is the significance of the 'intergenerational transmission of risk'?

It refers to how childhood adversity increases the risk of homelessness in adulthood.

What are some risk factors for homelessness among adults?

Physical or sexual abuse, inadequate parental care, and childhood adversity.

What role does economic insecurity play in homelessness?

It is a significant factor that can lead to homelessness due to lack of resources.

What is the impact of medical bills on housing stability?

Medical bills can result in the loss of housing, contributing to homelessness.

What is the effect of a minor crisis on housing stability?

Even a minor crisis, like a reduction in work hours or unexpected expenses, can lead to homelessness.

What is the relationship between affordable housing and homelessness?

A shortage of affordable rental housing is a major contributor to homelessness.

What are the psychological implications of homelessness?

Homelessness is associated with psychological trauma and adverse mental health outcomes.

What is the prevalence of child poverty?

The percentage of children in families with income below 100 percent of the federal poverty level.

Which households are more prevalent among African American and Hispanic families?

Single-mother headed households.

What was the poverty rate for Black children?

38.2 percent.

What is the poverty rate for Hispanic children?

32.3 percent.

What percentage of non-Hispanic White children live in poverty?

17 percent.

What is the poverty rate for Asian children?

13 percent.

How many children in the U.S. have a foreign-born parent?

17.2 million.

How many children of immigrant parents are considered poor?

4.2 million.

What factors contribute to child poverty in immigrant families?

Low-wage work and barriers to valuable work supports.

What are predictors of family conflict?

Lack of family attachment, poor communication styles, ineffective parenting practices, and family instability.

What is a major reason for youth homelessness?

Family conflict.

What are some psychological effects of child poverty?

Negative impacts on physical and mental health, including behavioral problems and emotional issues.

What are common behavioral problems among poorer children?

Impulsiveness, aggression, ADHD, and conduct disorder.

What emotional problems are associated with child poverty?

Anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

How does poverty affect academic achievement?

It has a particularly adverse effect, especially during early childhood.

What are some physical health problems faced by children living in poverty?

Chronic conditions such as asthma, anemia, and pneumonia.

What risky behaviors are more common among children in poverty?

Smoking and engaging in early sexual activity.

What is complex trauma in children?

Exposure to multiple traumatic events of an invasive and interpersonal nature, such as abuse or profound neglect.

What are the long-term impacts of complex trauma?

Addiction, chronic physical conditions, depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, and psychiatric disorders.

What interventions can help children affected by poverty?

Creating opportunities for healthy relationships, teaching self-regulation, and modeling appropriate communication styles.

What skills should youth develop to cope with poverty?

Understanding and monitoring their emotions, decision-making, self-care, and problem-solving.

What is the impact of chronic stress from poverty on children?

It adversely affects concentration and memory, impacting their ability to learn.

What is the relationship between poverty and food insecurity?

Inadequate food can lead to food insecurity and health issues like obesity.

What environmental factors increase risks for children in poverty?

Exposure to violence, environmental contaminants, and toxic waste.