Let’s Talk About It

We started this feature to dispel some of the myths surrounding family homelessness and to counter the stigma that is often attached to what we call “the H word.”

In this edition, we answer the question, “why do families experience homelessness?” The short answer is the cost of housing combined with low paying jobs. Some facts:

• Almost 70% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck.
• 40% of NJ residents do not have the cash on hand to cover an unexpected $400 expense.
• 52% of all NJ renters are considered cost burdened. That is, they pay more than 30% of their income on housing.
• Since the beginning of the pandemic, housing costs have risen 30% in Bergen County whereas workers saw an average increase in wages of just under 5%.

With a disparity as large as the one between income and housing costs, it’s no surprise that many New Jersey families are unable to keep up. When a family is financially insecure, one small hiccup can send a family spiraling into homelessness.

Many have to make difficult decisions regarding their housing situations. They include:

• Cutting back on other expenses including food and saving for college and retirement
• Taking on a second or third job to supplement their income
• Moving in with extended family (doubling up)
• Applying for assistance when eligible
• Negotiating payment plans with their landlord

The next time you hear someone judging a family experiencing homelessness as not trying hard enough or any other label, remember, these are challenging times. Families are doing their best to remain stably housed and self-sufficient.