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Myth vs. Fact

Jefferson Street Bridge Service

  1. Myth: Homeless people are useless members of society.
    Fact: 40% of homeless adult males served honorably in the US military.
  2. Myth: Homeless are so old they are not "worth" helping.
    Fact: The average age of the homeless adult male is 38; the average age of the homeless adult female is 32. Both genders have many good years left to offer.
  3. Myth: People are homeless because they are lazy.
    Fact: 90% of homeless have successful work histories, and many are currently employed.
  4. Myth: A minimum wage job is all a homeless person needs.
    Fact: In Davidson county, it requires a job paying $10.54 per hour/ 40 hours per week to afford the most modest one-bedroom apartment. Minimum wage is $5.85.
  5. Myth: If you want to work, you can find a job.
    Fact: Manufacturing and industrial blue collar jobs are steadily decreasing. Homeless people need new skills to keep up with the changing face of labor.
  6. Myth: Homeless don't want to do better.
    Fact: 92% desperately desire a permanent home.

Sources: National Mental Health Association, US Census, National Coalition for the Homeless, Metropolitan-Nashville Social Services