Slate News Slate Money | Money Talks: The Working Homeless in America
Jul 8, 2025
Join journalist Brian Goldstone, author of 'There Is No Place For Us', as he reveals the hidden struggles of the working homeless in America. He shares shocking insights into how many employed individuals face homelessness, debunking common misconceptions. Goldstone discusses exploitative housing practices like extended stay hotels and the severe lack of affordable housing. He advocates for viewing housing as a fundamental human right, drawing lessons from international examples to reshape America’s approach to this growing crisis.
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Hidden Homeless Population
- Official homelessness counts miss much of the crisis by excluding those not visibly homeless.
- True homelessness in the US is roughly six times higher than official figures.
Misleading Homelessness Narrative
- The homelessness narrative wrongly blames mental illness and laziness.
- This narrative obscures the real causes like housing policy and social safety net erosion.
Celeste's Housing Crisis Anecdote
- Celeste's rental home burned down due to an abusive ex, pushing her into homelessness.
- Landlord's eviction filing after the fire damaged her credit and housing prospects.
