Health Concerns

Some of the people interviewed felt that they personally are in good health, with the exception of minor ailments, and that other community members that they know are healthy, too. One man said he did not think homeless people had a lot of health problems, "mostly just minor problems, like athlete's feet, some might have a tooth ache, a tooth they pull, nothing major, may get a common cold."

Other respondents were dealing with major health concerns and knew many others with serious health challenges. One man responded, "Health. Oh God, I got health problems! I'm HIV positive. That's a problem. I've been like this for 13 years now." Community members often expressed concern about contracting contagious diseases. They were especially concerned that they might catch tuberculosis, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or HIV at the shelters. One woman told us that there are many health problems among people that she knows: "Lots of diabetes in my friends and family. Some get treated; some just don't give a damn. STDs, HIV is there too. I know some people with AIDS. Its out there." When asked about violence and shootings she said, "That's everywhere." She is also concerned about drugs and alcohol and worries about the health of her children.

In some cases, interviewees cited hospitalizations as leading directly to homelessness, due to associated losses of employment and subsequent debt from high medical bills.

Racism and Race Relations

Back to TOC

Causes of Homelessness