What is the definition of homelessness and is it a pandemic within the state of Alaska? The word homelessness is defined as a person who lacks a permanent place of residence. However, what it means to be homeless is far more complicated than a simple definition. The term homelessness is split into two categories, which are sheltered, and unsheltered with four sub categories. Those sub categories are youth, veterans, chronically homeless, and families. The first category, sheltered, means a building serving as a temporary refuge or residence for homeless persons. This normally consists of a cot and perhaps a blanket. Unsheltered refers to a homeless person on the street, that may take refuge in a car, abandoned building, or tent. This paper …show more content…
The youth sub category also has elements of sheltered and unsheltered homelessness, with sheltered being the more common in the majority of the states. The common reasons that cause youth to be homeless are split in to five categories, family dysfunction, transition or ageing out of foster care, physical or sexual abuse, mental issues, and economic complications. As a result of homelessness, youth face an array of problems, common ones are Sexually transmitted diseases, mental or physical illness, abuse of a mental, physical, or sexual nature, starvation, and exposure. “It is estimated that 5000 youth die every year as a result of assault, illness, or suicide” (Human-Services, Homeless and Runaway Youth 2013). Because the majority of homeless youth are not homeless by choice and are more often fleeing form an undesirable situation. The United States government has instituted a number of laws to help homeless youths continue their education despite the stigma that accompanies homelessness. Alaska has instituted supplemental policies to help relieve the epidemic of homelessness. Youth shelters in Alaska include, but are not limited to The Door in Fairbanks, Covenant House Anchorage, and Saxton Wasilla. These shelters help but do not meet the needs of the Alaskan population; additionally, there are a number of non-profits set up throughout Alaska that cater to the need of these youths ways other than sheltering them. Before Alaskan Youth homelessness is explored, homelessness on a national scale must first be