This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
The Federal Government Wants Suggestions for a Revised Definition of 'Homelessness'
Photo by Seven_Null7 via Flickr
Photo by Seven_Null7 via Flickr
The federal government is looking for a new definition of homelessness and they are taking suggestions and comments from the public. How would you define it?
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) the current definition of homeless is “an individual who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate, nighttime residence.” But under the HEARTH (Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing) Act, signed into law May 2009, HUD must revise those definitions.
In their latest e-mail newsletter about the homeless, the city of Santa Monica's Human Services Division, which focuses heavily on providing shelter and other services for the homeless individuals deemed most vulnerable, asks residents to take part in redefining terms such as “homeless”, “”homeless individual” and “homeless person”.
Many feel that the homeless population is greatly underestimated because of the strict HUD definition of homelessness, which therefore cuts off entire groups of people from assistance and services.
HUD is now accepting comments on the proposed ruling for those interested in the new definition. The public can submit them here up until June 21, 2010.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
