Responding to America's Homeless

This useful and clearly written book provides a discussionof the major issues involved in dealing with the homeless summarizes information available from a number of studies and draws conclusions about current public policy and future policy alternatives. . . . An important addition to any library dealing with contemporary social concerns. Choice The homeless have become more and more numerous and visible in our society. Responding to America''s Homeless presents the most complete up-to-date scientific evidence concerning the nature extent and causes of homelessness. Using an unprecedented survey of 1000 homeless individuals and families as well as previous national local and scholarly research the authors draw a vivid portrait of the homeless population and their needs. They challenge the widely held view that most homeless are mentally ill proposing an original classification of the homeless based on needs for various forms of assistance. On the basis of this empirical research the authors evaluate current public policies for dealing with the homeless and present alternative plans aimed at returning homeless people to more normal secure circumstances.