Research suggests that between 6 and 14 percent of the US population has been homeless at some point in their lives—a huge number of people. No Longer Homeless shares the stories of people who have formerly been homeless to examine how they transition off the streets, find housing, and stay housed. No Longer Homeless offers a unique perspective of people who have managed to change their lives, the resources they needed, and the factors that contributed to lasting change. The book profiles men and women of different races and ages across the country, and it shares stories of people who have been off the streets from two months to twenty years. It addresses topics such as addiction, mental health, income—from formal employment and off-the-books work, and community resources. No Longer Homeless is a powerful look at a group of people we rarely hear about—those who have formerly been on the streets—sharing the details of their lives to help individuals, organizations, and communities learn to better support the ongoing challenges of homelessness.
David Wagner is professor emeritus in sociology and social work at the University of Southern Maine. He is the author of nine books, including Checkerboard Square: Culture and Resistance in a Homeless Community, which won the C. Wright Mills Award.Gemma Atticks is a recent graduate of the Master of Social Work program at the University of Southern Maine.
Chapter 1—Introduction: Giving Voice to the Ex-HomelessChapter 2—Profiles of Formerly Homeless People: Some Surprising SuccessesChapter 3—The Fight to Secure and Stay in Housing Chapter 4—The Income to Live and Avoid Homelessness Chapter 5—Community, Support, and Staying HousedChapter 6—The Therapeutic Road to Recovery: Exits from Homelessness
Homelessness does not define a person—it is a tragic condition that too many Americans have suffered for far too long. David Wagner expertly captures the essential humanity of men and women who have been homeless. It is a story of hope and promise.