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Late 1800s in America
During the 1880's, the ranks of the homeless swelled for a variety of reasons; migration to the frontiers, displacement caused by the Civil War, seasonal employment patterns in agriculture, and severe economic slumps through the 1890's. -
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Homelessness in America
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The Great Depression (1929-1939)
When the Stock Market crashed in 1929, the economy completely slumped leaving millions in America homeless. The Dust Bowl in 1930 lasted for many years which was casued by mismanaged farming techniques and devastated farming families. Unemployment skyrocked during the Great Depression to 25%, a record high. -
The Social Security Act of 1935
This act insured 26 million American workers against income loss from unemployment. The act started a major decline in homlessness rates across America, and played a major role in employment rapidly increasing. Monthly benefits ranged anywhere from 10 to 85 dollars for many American families. This act decreased homelessness for a long time until the 1980's where an increase began. -
1980's in America
In the early 1980's, the homeless majority became women and children in many cities. Unemployment during this era became the highest rate since the Great Depression, leaving millions homeless. -
Homelessness today (2013)
Homlessness today is at a major high leaving more than 3.5 million people homeless every year. 35% of the homeless are families with children which makes up the majority of the homeless population. In NYC there are more than 20,000 more homeless people showing up to shelters than just 6 years ago. The poverty rate rose to 13.2% of the population this year and 1 and 7 people in America risk suffering from hunger.
