By Jennifer Tucker
November 7, 2023 | 2 Min. Read

Individuals and families who have found themselves homeless face a challenging journey back to stability. It’s not easy to figure out how to get out of homelessness, but with perseverance and a plan, recovery is possible.

Many individuals and families who have experienced homelessness have gone on to lead fulfilling lives. The process to rebuild your life and regain financial security requires determination, support, and access to resources.

According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, the number of homeless people in the U.S.  has been on the rise since 2017, with an overall increase of 6%. As of January 2022, more than 580,000 people were experiencing homelessness, which amounts to roughly 18 out of every 10,000 people. The majority (72%) were adult individuals, and a notable number (28%) were families with children.

It is possible to recover from homelessness. However, the journey can be challenging and requires a combination of personal determination and public services.

If you’re currently homeless, you can take steps today to get back on your feet. Recovering from homelessness involves these key steps:

Homelessness is often the result of multiple factors. Unemployment, poverty, mental health challenges, or lack of affordable housing may have contributed to you becoming homeless. Identifying these underlying factors and addressing them is important for sustained recovery. Social workers, counselors, and advisors can help you create a plan to overcome and prevent these challenges.

If you’re not already employed and if you are able, finding a stable job is a key step toward recovery. Job training programs, resume assistance, and networking opportunities can help you secure employment, increase your income, and begin saving for the future.

Transitional housing may be one stop on your recovery journey. What is transitional homelessness? Transitional homelessness is a phase individuals or families experience as they move toward obtaining permanent housing. This phase may involve moving through transitional housing programs, affordable housing options, or receiving assistance with rental subsidies.

Recovering from homelessness requires personal growth and development. Take advantage of community services like job training, mental health counseling, and financial education. Learning new life skills and improving your well-being can help you set and achieve goals for the future.

Regaining stability and preventing future homelessness requires long-term planning, especially when it comes to money management. Seek support and resources to help you get back on track financially. This could be a local financial institution or a nonprofit credit counseling agency. Marine Credit Union partners with GreenPath Financial Wellness.

Recovering from homelessness is a long road. The path is not always linear, and setbacks can occur. A support network of friends, family, community groups, and social services will be important as you regain and maintain stability. The resources and emotional support these groups provide will help you find a sense of belonging and motivate your continued recovery.

211 is a phone number in the U.S. and Canada that provides a single point of contact for individuals and families seeking assistance, making it easier for them to access the help they need.

Dialing 211 will connect you with trained professionals who can provide information on a wide range of resources in your local area, including: