The Spread Of Homelessness In The 1970's

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Modern homelessness in New York City emerged during the 1970’s; it was not new occurrence to the city because there was a great deal of homelessness during the Great Depression. However, homelessness was never as great as it is today. In the 1970’s New York experienced an increase in the homeless population. Although many people became homeless for a variety of reasons, the lack of affordable housing was the primary factor. Many of the city's homeless population were individuals who suffer from mental illnesses or who were substance abusers. The further perpetuate the issue the City did not legally have to shelter homeless individuals. With no rights to shelter, the homeless population was forced to provide for themselves. Many took up residence