Homelessness in America - Cities in Crisis

As an educator and avid learner, I set out to understand the complex issue of homelessness in America. After watching hundreds of interviews with people living on the streets, I wrote this book to share their stories and perspectives. Across twenty heartfelt chapters, you will meet individuals like Bruce, a lawyer-turned-beggar in D.C.; Penny, a young woman selling her body for drug money in Detroit; and James, an entrepreneur in Columbus still holding onto hope. Each person describes in their own words how they wound up homeless, whether through job loss, addiction, childhood trauma, lack of affordable housing or a combination of misfortunes. From cities like Philadelphia and Las Vegas to the tent cities of L.A. and Portland, the crisis spans the nation. In the second half of the book, I dig into data on homelessness - which states have the highest rates, the demographics involved, the shortage of shelters, and more. My goal is to humanize this issue and show that homeless people are not mere statistics. They are complex individuals in need of support. I hope their stories will challenge misconceptions, spark solutions and inspire more compassion. While not every homeless person wants help, we must do more for those willing to better their lives. This book illuminates the harsh realities they face while reminding us that our fellow citizens matter.