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  • Essay / Poverty and Homelessness in the United States

    When we think about people who live in poverty, we often think that they made poor life decisions to lead them to the condition in which they live. “Approximately 37 million people, or between 12 and 12 years old. 13% of the population lives in poverty. Many families live paycheck to paycheck due to bills such as rent, food and transportation. “In today’s society, housing costs are more expensive than ever.” When a person cannot afford housing, they are often forced to become homeless. “In 2008, 1.4 billion people worldwide lived in extreme poverty. An additional 1.9 billion people lived above the poverty line but did not earn enough money to live comfortably.” These people are often forced to make unhealthy choices when purchasing food because fast food and junk food are often much cheaper than fruits and vegetables. “The combination of poor diet and lack of health care puts poor children at risk of long-term problems such as obesity, heart disease and asthma.” In rural areas of the United States, housing is inexpensive because of the area it is located in and the amenities it has to offer. “In some cities, gentrification is a problem. This happens when once-affordable housing is renovated into expensive condominiums for the wealthy or demolished for new developments. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay People who live in rural areas might not be able to afford the more luxurious price of newly constructed housing as well as the other expenses of living a day-to-day life. In today's society, it is common for children to be born into poverty instead of only facing it as adults. “12. Eight million children under the age of eighteen live in poverty. Children who grow up in poverty “often begin life without health insurance, and most pregnant women living in poverty will not receive appropriate prenatal care.” Businesses are also greatly affected by poverty-stricken areas. “Nearly half of the planet lived on less than $2. 50 per day in 2008.” When people can't afford to go to stores and stores, businesses don't make enough to keep their doors open. When companies begin to experience financial insecurities, they often take salary cuts or layoffs. “Between 1980 and 1995 alone, corporate revenues increased by 129.5%, corporate profits by 127%, and executive compensation by 182%.” People in high positions in a company are financially well off, but lower positions are often affected. “By 1930, more than 26,000 American businesses, such as cafes and stores, were forced to close their doors.” When a person cannot afford housing, they often turn to friends for housing and gyms for swimming. Often, turning to the streets is the only option they have. “Many homeless people have difficulty showering and washing their clothes, which makes it difficult to get a job because they do not appear qualified to hold a job.” Homeless people face many risks that a normal person would not face, such as extreme weather, disease, and predators. “Women who live on the streets are.