In order to achieve this, we first must understand why people lose their homes and become homeless. It is not a personal failing to become homeless. Numerous variables impact housing, many of them beyond one’s control. Poverty, unemployment, mental health issues, substance use issues, incarceration and illness can all cause homelessness. Further, family issues can lead to housing instability; domestic abuse and homophobia are two examples that can put family members on the streets. Additionally, veterans face these housing challenges far too often, with post-traumatic stress disorder in particular contributing to their plight. Evictions and foreclosures and economic and financial decisions obviously remain an important determinant as well.