Homelessness is one of the biggest problem that our world is facing today and thus it has become very important to address it as recent data shows that homelessness is ob the rise around the world which can lead to devastating effects in future.
To address the same issue of homelessness and make people aware about the seriousness of it, the World Homeless Day is annually observed on 10th of October.
The purpose of this day is to bring to focus the issues of homelessness and inadequate housing. Activists raise awareness on the need to provide opportunities for communities to get involved in responding to homelessness.
| Event | World Homeless Day |
|---|---|
| Date | October 10, 2022 |
| Day | Monday |
| Significance | This day address the same issue of homelessness. |
| Observed by | World wide |
World Homeless Day History:
The accounts of homelessness can be found throughout the early history all the way to modern world today. As when the civilizations first emerged it was seen that at start it was pretty equal but as the times passed on the inequality increased among the people living there and soon those coming at the lowest level were often left homeless and isolated from the society and since then this phenomenon continues today.
One account can be found in the United Kingdom following the Peasants' Revolt, English constables were authorized under 1383 English Poor Laws statute to collar vagabonds and force them to show support; if they could not, the penalty was imprisonment. During the 16th century in England, the state first tried to give housing to vagrants instead of punishing them, by introducing bridewells to take vagrants and train them for a profession.
After the American Civil War, a large number of homeless men formed part of a counterculture known as "hobohemia" all over the United States. In smaller towns, hobos temporarily lived near train tracks and hopped onto trains to various destinations. Later the Great Depression of the 1930s caused a devastating epidemic of poverty, hunger, and homelessness in the United States. Recently the 2008 financial crisis and then the Covid-19 pandemic have also accelerated the homelessness problem.
The first World Homeless Day was observed on October 10, 2010. The concept of World Homeless Day originated from online discussions among activists who have been involved in helping the homeless in their respective countries. And since then every October 10, World Homeless Day gives an opportunity to bring together the like-minded people who are looking for ways in helping the homeless in their community.
World Homeless Day Significance:
Contrary to popular belief, homelessness is actually on the rise in many countries around the world. Inflated property rates coupled with poor wages and irregular work opportunities are the reasons why so many people find themselves without homes. In developed countries it is mostly common among the minority and immigrant groups in the country hence it is very important to address this serious issues now.
The rights of people experiencing homelessness also varies from country to country. Homelessness and poverty are interrelated. There is no methodological consensus on counting homeless people and identifying their needs; therefore, in most cities, only estimated homeless populations are known which means that there can be much more people being actually homeless that we know today.
More than just raising alarm about homelessness, the day also addresses the need for building adequate housing that is safe, clean, and has all basic facilities. It also draws attention to the needs of the homeless and how this affects different aspects of their lives. The four primary causes of homelessness are lack of affordable housing, unemployment, poverty, and low wages. Mentally challenged people or people suffering with drug addiction also has a high chance of getting homeless. In case of women domestic violence can cause homelessness.
It is believed that there are about 150 million people around the world who don’t have a home. This means that almost 2% of the world’s population is homeless and this is a very serious problem of our world. On being homeless these people suffers from a wide range of problems like lack of access to basic necessities like water supply, prone to various infectious diseases and also to get involved in illicit activities or becoming a victim to many types of crime. So solving homelessness is very important for the betterment of the humanity.
World Homeless Day Activities:
Do you live in a locality or neighborhood where homelessness still is a common problem or it exists in some way then try to do your part by making authorities aware about it and urge them to take action towards solving it. Ask your elected representatives about how they plan to solve the crisis of homelessness and if they doesn't reply then show your protest against it.
You can volunteer your time at a non-profit organization or any charity that works for homeless people. Habitat for Humanity, your local soup kitchen and other organizations like them are good places where you can volunteer your service.
You can also organize a fundraiser on World Homeless Day to collect funds for the homeless in your community. You can also donate to an organization of your choice that is involved in helping the homeless do in this way you will also get the chance to solve the crisis of homelessness from our world.
Most Searched FAQs on World Homeless Day:
1. When is World Homeless Day observed?
World Homeless Day is annually observed on 10th October.
2. What are the types of homelessness?
Homelessness can essentially be broken down into four categories: chronic, episodic, transitional, and hidden.
3. How many homeless are there in the world?
It is estimated that there are about 150 million homeless people in the world today about 2% of the global population.