Final answer:
The statement that lack of affordable housing, employment opportunities, and government assistance contribute to homelessness is true. Homelessness is influenced by economic conditions, scarcity of affordable housing, mental illness, and social exclusion, which all illustrate the multifaceted nature of the issue.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that lack of affordable housing, employment opportunities, and government assistance contributes to the rates of homelessness in the United States is TRUE. Homelessness is a complex issue that is affected by a variety of factors, including economic conditions, availability of affordable housing, and social policies. The scarcity of resources such as housing and employment opportunities can exacerbate poverty and homelessness. Additionally, societal issues like addiction, mental illness, and social exclusion also play significant roles in driving individuals and families to homelessness. It is evident from research and data, such as those from Shinn & Khadduri and the Los Angeles Homeless Authority, that there is a direct correlation between these factors and the rates of homelessness.
Contributors to Homelessness
Lack of affordable housing
Insufficient employment opportunities
Limited government assistance
Moreover, vibrant economies can also inadvertently contribute to homelessness when the demand for housing increases, leading to higher rent prices that outpace the financial abilities of lower-income groups. The intersectionality of various individual characteristics and social circumstances can lead to vulnerabilities that increase the risk of becoming homeless, which is particularly evident in high-cost areas like Honolulu.