Los Angeles County’s 2015 Homeless Count showed a 12 percent jump in homelessness, grabbing headlines and leading to a declaration of “emergency” by elected officials. Yet another number stands out — 33 percent, representing the over 13,000 women who make up the county’s homeless population.
A woman experiencing homelessness enters a system designed by and for the majority. Her homelessness may have resulted from a violent home, a final paycheck, or untenable healthcare costs. And when she navigates the maze of homeless services, she faces a series of shut doors. Looking for housing? “Sorry, we only have shelter for families.” Need a mammogram or pregnancy care? “Sorry, we don’t offer women’s health services.” Survivor of a violent assault? “Sorry, we’ll have to refer you elsewhere.”
For women, a history of abuse is often a common thread. Over two-thirds of women in Skid Row have experienced child abuse, domestic violence, or sexual assault. In some cases, women are survivors of all three.
Combined with a history of abuse, the psychological effects of homelessness are profound for women. Not to mention the effects on the body, including a life expectancy cut 30 years short and chronic health conditions. Addressing trauma must be a priority, and it starts by asking, “What happened to you?” rather than, “What is wrong with you?” A trauma-informed approach leads to longer-term health outcomes and, crucially, reduces the likelihood that someone will return to homelessness. Making this approach a requirement for service providers would help ensure we are ending homelessness not just for women, but for all who suffer the trauma of homelessness.
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