There Are Many Social Problems That Impact Our Societ 663272

There Are Many Social Problems That Impact Our Society And On A Larg

There are many social problems that impact our society, and on a larger scale, our world. As a human services professional, you need to develop a greater sense of awareness of these social problems, which will better assist you to become an advocate for the people for whom you serve. For this part of your project, you will compare your chosen social problem impact on another country in the world. Part 1: Research Choose another First World Country in the world that has dealt with the same social problem that you have selected. Locate two (2) credible resources describing the history, evolution of that problem, and what has been attempted in the past to eradicate the problem. You can use your textbook, credible websites, articles, etc. One must be a resource located through the Rasmussen Library databases. Part 2: Reflect In a minimum of two-pages (not counting the title page and reference page) address the following: Identify your chosen First World Country and summarize how the given social problem is the same compared to the U.S. and what are some of the differences? Select two (2) strategies that you would advocate for to affect improvement for the US on this social problem. Incorporate two (2) credible resources which support chosen social problem. Cite sources used. Use professional language including complete sentences and proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation throughout your paper. Be sure to cite any research sources in APA format.

Paper For Above instruction

The complex landscape of social problems affects societies worldwide, demanding a nuanced understanding for effective advocacy. This paper compares the impact of homelessness in the United States and Canada, two prominent First World countries with similar economic and social structures. It explores how homelessness manifests similarly and differently in these nations, evaluates past efforts to combat the issue, and proposes strategies tailored to improve homelessness interventions in the U.S., supported by credible research.

Introduction

Homelessness remains a persistent global challenge, particularly in economically developed nations like the United States and Canada. While both countries share high standards of living and advanced social systems, the scope and nature of homelessness reveal unique historical, cultural, and policy-driven differences. Understanding these nuances is vital for human services professionals aiming to advocate effectively and implement targeted solutions.

Homelessness in the United States and Canada: Similarities and Differences

Homelessness in both the U.S. and Canada is characterized by individuals and families lacking stable, safe, and adequate housing. In both countries, economic instability, lack of affordable housing, mental health issues, substance abuse, and systemic inequities are primary contributory factors, leading to a significant homeless population that varies across urban and rural areas. Despite similarities, notable differences exist in policy responses, social safety nets, and the cultural perception of homelessness.

In the United States, homelessness has been exacerbated by economic inequality, insufficient affordable housing, and fragmented healthcare systems. The federal government's approach includes programs like the Continuum of Care and the Housing First initiative, although the effectiveness varies regionally (National Alliance to End Homelessness, 2020). Conversely, Canada’s approach emphasizes housing as a fundamental right, exemplified by initiatives such as the Homelessness Partnering Strategy, which focuses on rapid rehousing and harm reduction (Canada Housing and Mortgage Corporation [CMHC], 2019). Culturally, homelessness is often stigmatized more prominently in the U.S., influencing public policy and resource allocation.

Past Efforts and Their Effectiveness

In the U.S., efforts like the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and recent expansions under the Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing (HEARTH) Act aimed to streamline services and increase housing resources (HUD, 2021). While these have made advancements in outreach and emergency shelter, critics argue that systemic issues persist, requiring broader policy reforms. Canada’s emphasis on housing as a right, supported by federal funding and partnerships with provincial agencies, has improved rapid rehousing outcomes but still faces challenges with persistent homelessness among Indigenous populations (Gaetz et al., 2014).

Strategies for Improvement in the United States

To enhance efforts in the U.S., two strategies warrant advocacy. Firstly, expanding and implementing the Housing First model nationwide can significantly reduce chronic homelessness. This model prioritizes providing permanent housing without preconditions, subsequently offering support services (Tsemberis, 2010). Evidence indicates that Housing First leads to improved health outcomes, stability, and cost savings. Secondly, increasing investments in affordable housing development through federal grants and zoning reforms is essential to address the root cause—lack of affordable homes. Policymakers should incentivize local governments to adopt inclusive zoning policies and leverage public-private partnerships to accelerate affordable housing projects (Desmond, 2018).

Support from Credible Resources

Research by Tsemberis (2010) underscores the effectiveness of Housing First in reducing homelessness and improving quality of life. Similarly, Desmond (2018) highlights the critical role of affordable housing investment in addressing homelessness at a systemic level. Both strategies are supported by evidence-based studies and demonstrate promising pathways for policy advocacy.

Conclusion

Homelessness presents complex challenges in both the U.S. and Canada, demanding targeted, culturally sensitive approaches. By expanding Housing First programs and boosting affordable housing initiatives, the U.S. can make significant strides toward reducing homelessness and providing equitable access to shelter. Understanding international approaches offers valuable insights and underscores the importance of evidence-based policies in solving social problems.

References

• Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. (2019). Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS). https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca
• Desmond, M. (2018). Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City. Crown Publishing Group.
• Gaetz, S., Dej, E., Richter, T., & Redman, M. (2014). The State of Homelessness in Canada: 2014. Canadian Observatory on Homelessness Press.
• HUD. (2021). The 2021 Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR) to Congress. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
• National Alliance to End Homelessness. (2020). The State of Homelessness in America. https://endhomelessness.org
• Tsemberis, S. (2010). Housing First: The Pathways Model to End Homelessness for People with Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. European Journal of Homelessness, 4(2), 229–244.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2021). Homeless Assistance Programs. https://www.hud.gov