As of 2015, more than half a million people are considered homeless across America. As for why individuals or even families are now living on the streets, the reasons vary from case to case. Since the 2008 recession, many Americans have lost their jobs due to the sudden bursting of the housing bubble. This results in foreclosure and bad economy in general. Another reason is to be released from institutions and left on the streets instead of being placed in intermediate housing. Examples of such places are prisoners released after serving their sentence, a mentally ill patient after their stay has expired, or a minor released from foster care after reaching an age limit to be alone. Finally, natural and man-made disasters. After an earthquake, hurricane, or war, both homes and businesses are likely to be destroyed, displacing a family. The public reaction of homeless people is sometimes based on myths, misunderstandings and stereotypes. One of these misconceptions is that homeless people are too lazy to work. In truth, not everyone is lazy. Some of these individuals may have once had a well-paying job before a company went bankrupt, or some are still working low-paying jobs but cannot afford a living space such as rent. Teenagers are kicked out of their homes by their parents for causing trouble. In reality this may not always be the case. While a parent would kick them out for actions such as committing crimes, other teenagers are on the streets for other reasons such as being homosexual or becoming pregnant. All homeless people are criminals. Again, not everyone is a criminal. Although a small number of homeless people have been released from the prison system, not all are violent. So, what are the various statistics about the homeless…middle of the paper…have they continued education to reinforce the job? skills that they will use in the world of work. This concludes the healing process for the homeless individual. A person would enroll in a counseling or rehabilitation program to talk about their problems or to detox from drug or alcohol use. Along with counseling and therapy programs, they may be involved in a peer support group. In this group they would meet with other individuals who were once homeless, victims of abuse or drug addicts. Sharing these stories would help increase their self-esteem and better understand their previous or current situation. Others will choose to seek guidance or even attend a religious group to help themselves and begin the healing process. While some will not complete the programs and return to the streets, others hope that the recovery process will finally free them from poverty..