I recently came across an insightful article by Cynthia Griffith, a freelance writer focused on social justice and environmental issues. Her piece examines how politicians frame the homelessness crisis, often shifting blame away from policy failures and onto those directly affected. I highly recommend reading her article for specific examples. In this post, I will expand on the societal misconceptions surrounding homelessness and how government officials contribute to the ongoing disconnect.
The Real Cause of Homelessness: Lack of Affordable Housing
Too often, political leaders misrepresent homelessness as an issue stemming from personal failings rather than systemic problems. They associate homelessness with crime and drug use, conveniently ignoring that these are broader societal issues exacerbated by economic inequality and lack of resources. Instead of addressing the root cause—a severe shortage of affordable housing—politicians deflect responsibility and perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
Affordable housing should be a fundamental right, yet institutional investors are monopolizing the market, making it even harder for individuals and families to afford a home. A report from Fast Company highlights how corporations like Blackstone have acquired massive amounts of residential real estate, driving up housing costs and displacing residents. To combat this, policymakers must enforce stricter anti-trust and monopoly laws, ensuring single-family homes remain accessible to families rather than being hoarded by profit-driven corporations.
Corporate Greed, Stagnant Wages, and Affordable Housing
In addition to skyrocketing housing costs, low wages further contribute to the homelessness crisis. The federal minimum wage has remained stagnant at $7.25 since 2009, making it impossible for full-time workers to afford basic living expenses. Someone earning minimum wage takes home less than $1,000 a month after taxes, while the average rent for an apartment now exceeds $1,500. This wage disparity is a direct result of corporate exploitation, enabled by political inaction.
A 2020 Government Accountability Office report identified Walmart and McDonald's as having the highest number of employees relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Despite their massive profits—Walmart has a market cap exceeding $500 billion, while McDonald's is valued at nearly $200 billion—these corporations underpay their workers, forcing them to depend on government aid. Other corporate giants, such as Amazon ($1.75 trillion market cap), Home Depot ($350 billion), and Uber ($144 billion), follow similar exploitative practices.
Policymakers must implement wage regulations that tie earnings to the cost of living in each community. Corporations should not be allowed to rake in record profits while their employees struggle to secure affordable housing.
Redefining Government Assistance and Its Impact on Affordable Housing
There is a glaring double standard in how government assistance is perceived. When the government bails out failing corporations, it is framed as a necessity. However, when funds are allocated to help individuals afford housing, healthcare, and education, critics argue that people should "pull themselves up by their bootstraps."
Investing in people benefits entire communities. Providing access to affordable housing, healthcare, and quality education strengthens the economy and reduces crime. Meanwhile, allowing billion-dollar corporations to underpay employees while relying on government subsidies is a policy failure that must be addressed.
Demand Change: Hold Politicians and Corporations Accountable
Politicians must prioritize the needs of their constituents over corporate lobbyists. The affordable housing crisis will only worsen if we do not demand action. We need policies that:
- Enforce anti-trust laws to prevent corporate monopolization of the housing market.
- Establish a living wage that reflects local costs of living.
- Hold corporations accountable for paying fair wages and contributing their fair share in taxes.
- Invest in affordable housing and social programs that uplift communities.
The time for change is now. Hold your representatives accountable, advocate for fair policies, and demand solutions that put people over profits. Affordable housing is not just a necessity—it is a human right that must be protected.
