Myths surrounding homelessness are widespread today. Whether through word of mouth or from the mini-computer we have in our pockets, these false narratives continue to circulate, making it easy to fall into the trap of misunderstanding homelessness and its solutions (yes, there are solutions!).
Amidst April having the reputation as the month of the trickster, we’re here to share a bit of truth. The more we understand homelessness, the more we can work together to end it.
Now for some myth-busting.
MYTH: Homelessness is a permanent problem that will never be solved.
TRUTH: Permanent supportive housing is highly effective in ending homelessness. With ongoing support services, it is possible to reduce high rates of homelessness, specifically among vulnerable groups. Once in housing, people who have experienced homelessness can maintain themselves in permanent housing over long periods of time. Throughout the country, rates of homelessness have decreased with the implementation of supportive housing programs.¹
MYTH: It is impossible to find enough housing for everyone.
TRUTH: In 2024, researchers found that there is not a shortage of housing, but a shortage in affordable housing. Addressing housing prices and low incomes is imperative to end homelessness. While there are units available, nearly all markets lack spaces with price points that are possible for low-income individuals and families to afford.
MYTH: People experiencing homelessness just need a job.
TRUTH: Homelessness is a result of multiple factors, including lack of affordable healthcare, mental illness, physical disability, and lack of affordable housing. While the loss of job opportunities and benefits plays a role, the factors impacting people experiencing homelessness go beyond simply needing employment. While employment helps people to stay housed, it also does not guarantee housing. As many as 40% to 60% of unhoused people have a job, but housing is unaffordable.¹
MYTH: Providing housing assistance just creates more problems.
TRUTH: Researchers found in 2021 that housing assistance reduces the probability of returning to a homeless support system. It also reduces crime, increases employment, and improves health. In 18 months, assistance lowers the number of emergency department visits by 80% and increases the probability of reporting employment by 24 percentage points. Overall, housing assistance reduces future homelessness and improves other socioeconomic outcomes.
MYTH: Most people experiencing homelessness choose to be homeless.
TRUTH: There is a direct relationship between the reduced availability of low-cost housing, and the increased number of unhoused individuals and families. Research finds that most people who become homeless have nowhere to live after being evicted, losing their jobs, or fleeing an abusive partner. In a study conducted over three decades, very rarely was it found that anyone experiencing homelessness had “chosen” the homeless lifestyle.¹
MYTH: There is nothing I can do about homelessness.
TRUTH: Volunteers are vital to the work of nonprofits and other organizations with the mission of ending homelessness.
By volunteering, you can play an active role in creating more vibrant communities for all! Whether serving lunch in Caritas of Austin’s Community Kitchen, or hosting a community event, you can do valuable work to end homelessness.
By donating, you can directly contribute to providing a stable home for everyone in the Greater Austin Area. With your contributions, organizations can continue to provide homes and resources to our unhoused neighbors.
As we have all finished crafting our best April Fools’ jokes, it’s important to remember that homelessness isn’t anything to laugh at. With awareness and compassion, we can work together to end homelessness in our city.
¹ McGee, M. P., & Gonzalez, J. J. (2021). Cities and Homelessness. McFarland & Company, Incorporated Publishers.
