Common Myths About Homeless Shelters Debunked
Homelessness is a complex issue affecting millions of people in the United States and worldwide. While homeless shelters play a critical role in supporting individuals facing housing insecurity, public perception is often shaped by misinformation or outdated ideas. In this post, we debunk some of the most common myths about homeless shelters and reveal the truth behind these essential community resources.
Myth #1: Homeless Shelters Are Only for “Certain Types” of People
Truth: Homeless shelters serve a diverse range of individuals and families, including veterans, seniors, people with disabilities, survivors of domestic violence, LGBTQ+ youth, and entire families who have lost their housing due to financial hardship. Many people experiencing homelessness are employed but cannot afford stable housing.
In cities like San Diego and New York, shelters such as Father Joe's Villages and Coalition for the Homeless serve everyone from single mothers to college-educated professionals who’ve fallen on hard times.
Myth #2: Shelters Are Dangerous and Unsanitary
Truth: While some older shelters may struggle with resources, many modern emergency shelters uphold high standards for cleanliness and safety. Staff are trained to de-escalate conflicts, and many shelters offer private or semi-private accommodations, especially for families and vulnerable individuals.
The Downtown Women’s Center in Los Angeles is known for its trauma-informed approach, cleanliness, and supportive environment for women facing homelessness.
Myth #3: People Choose to Stay in Shelters Instead of Working or Getting Help
Truth: This misconception ignores the systemic issues causing homelessness, such as lack of affordable housing, medical debt, or domestic violence. Most people in shelters are actively looking for housing, jobs, and permanent support. In fact, many shelters connect residents to employment resources, case management, and mental health services.
Organizations like The Bowery Mission in NYC offer job training, addiction recovery, and transitional housing to help residents rebuild their lives.
Myth #4: Shelters Enable Homelessness Instead of Solving It
Truth: Homeless shelters are not a long-term solution, but they are an essential first step in stabilizing lives. Without access to temporary housing, people facing homelessness have a harder time securing work, accessing healthcare, or reuniting with family. Shelters also often collaborate with permanent supportive housing programs and transitional services.
Pathways to Housing in multiple U.S. cities uses a "Housing First" model, starting with shelter and moving toward long-term solutions.
Myth #5: Shelters Have Plenty of Space — People Choose to Stay on the Street
Truth: In many urban areas, shelters operate at or above capacity. Others may have restrictions (e.g., no pets, curfews, or gender-specific rules) that make it difficult for some individuals to access them. However, most people would choose safe shelter over sleeping outdoors if given accessible, appropriate options.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many cities saw spikes in street homelessness not due to choice, but due to limited shelter space and safety concerns.
Understanding the truth about shelters helps reduce stigma and supports effective homelessness support efforts. By replacing myths with facts, communities can work together to build compassionate solutions and policies that uplift, not punish, people in crisis.