It is more expensive to deal with the consequences of homelessness than getting at root causes and preventing homelessness. Study after study in each of the these countries in effect call into question the cost benefit ratio of shelters as band-aid solutions. (Australia, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland  and United States of America )

So there is an economic case for spending money to tackle the root causes of homelessness. Ending Homelessness is strictly business. Homeless people use a variety of public services in an inefficient and costly way. Preventing a homeless episode or ensuring speedy transition into stable permanent housing can result in significant cost savings, as well as dramatic improvement to the lives of homeless people. (And yet there is a growing tendency to treat Homelessness as a crime.)

Enter systemic change… and the Vincentian Family. We are doing something about the underlying causes. We can rejoice… and be challenged by our brothers and sisters who are doing something.

Depaul International, Homeless People’s Federation, Australian Vinnies CEO Sleepout, etc.

But what can we do as individuals?

• Make other aware that there are better and more cost effective solutions than band-aid approaches.
• Prayer for our brothers and sisters who are doing so much with so little in the face of homelessness.