What Homelessness Is

Foundational literacy on definitions, categories, and the diverse experiences of homelessness.

Understanding what homelessness actually means is essential before discussing solutions or policies. This section provides foundational knowledge about the definitions, categories, and diverse experiences of homelessness.

What "Homelessness" Actually Means

Explore the official definitions of homelessness used by different agencies and why these definitions matter for policy and support services.

Unsheltered vs. Sheltered Homelessness

Learn about the differences between unsheltered homelessness (living outdoors or in places not meant for habitation) and sheltered homelessness (staying in emergency shelters or transitional housing).

Chronic vs. Episodic Homelessness

Understand the distinction between chronic homelessness (long-term or repeated) and episodic homelessness (temporary or intermittent), and why this distinction matters for solutions.

Why Homelessness Is Not a Single Experience

Explore the diverse experiences of homelessness across different demographics, geographies, and circumstances, challenging the notion of a monolithic "homeless population."

Hidden Homelessness: Couch Surfing and Doubling Up

Learn about forms of homelessness that often go uncounted in official statistics, including people staying temporarily with friends or family due to lack of housing.

How Homelessness Is Counted and Measured

Understand the methods used to count people experiencing homelessness, including point-in-time counts, and the limitations of these approaches.