FAQ: How did we wind up on the streets?

The answers are many, yet the question itself does not affect our Homeless Portfolios.

Mental illness is very, very common among the homeless.  A 1996 study found that 57% of the homeless were self-diagnosed as mentally ill.  More than 60% say they have a history of alcohol and/or drug abuse.  These numbers seem high, but since the homeless have no reason to lie in surveys it's doubtlessly pretty accurate.  Our observations confirm this.

Continuity of mental health care for the destitute is lacking across the country.  Some states have halved their programs, and the insane cost of most psychiatric drugs has left many of the mentally ill homeless without the medications they need to be healthy and safe. 

That's not at all good for America.  The lack of needed meds will result in increased crime, and the blight of increased numbers of homeless people on the streets.  Job growth can help, but most folks compiling their Homeless Portfolios aren't yet able to work.  For the mentally ill, they may never be able to work again. 

Non-psychiatric medical bills have led to bankruptcy and homelessness for many.  The unemployment rate is huge, leaving many more Americans losing the ability to pay rent. 

We'll discuss psychiatric care options later in our journey.  Alcohol and drug abuse will discussed as well. 

Don't doubt the enormity of the homelessness crisis.  The federal Housing and Urban Development department estimated that 1 in 190 Americans stayed in shelters during a one year period between 2007 and 2008.  ONE IN 190!  For those who became homeless during that one year period, tens of thousands of them were seeking refuge for the first time.

Homelessness is scary, especially if you have kids.   You're more likely to be robbed or assaulted because you are going to be surrounded by lots of criminals, including sex offenders.  You'll be spending time with people whom you would otherwise find revolting.  You're going to have to put your personal prejudices aside to survive.

There is a lasting psychiatric effect from being homeless.  Here at The Homeless Portfolio we went from donating supplies to our local soup kitchen to eating there every day. 

There are also people who prefer sleeping outdoors.  Sounds odd, but it's true.  Sleeping out gives some of the homeless a sense of freedom, which is in short supply in a mission or shelter.

So, how did we wind up on the streets?

Answer: it makes no difference.
. 
Every person born has done bad things.  Sometimes terrible things.  A lot of us assume that our dire straits are just a manifestation of karma; we're suffering now for our past sins.  In truth, for many of the homeless their choice to commit crimes landed them in a shelter or mission.

Regardless of why you're on the streets, you must accept that:
YOUR SUFFERING ON THE STREETS HELPS NO ONE!

Maybe you've abandoned your wife and kids, and you're racked with guilt.  You've done a terrible thing, yet it's going to benefit no one for you to just accept a life of permanent homelessness.  If you've victimized someone, that victim doesn't benefit from you living in a park today.  No matter how bad you think you are, you must focus on making your life right.

The Homeless Portfolio aims to teach you just how to do that.

Ignore the question of why you wound up homeless.  Focus on being a better person and improving your life.  IT CAN BE DONE!  The Homeless Portfolio is proof.

2010 ToddCo Investment Services All Rights Reserved