Homelessness
Millions of people have run out of options
Adequate housing is a human right
Out in the Cold Homelessness can result from natural disaster, conflict, greed, illness, addiction, and discrimination. Due to these forces, three billion people are living on less than $2.50 a day.
Last Resort One billion people live in slums. 100 million more have no place to live at all. In Africa, Asia and Latin America, 30% of the population lives in illegal settlements, deteriorating tenements, or shoddy boarding-houses.
Every Cent Counts One non-profit organization believes we can shelter the world’s homeless for $21 billion, roughly 4% of the U.S. defense budget. Microfinance loans—with a repayment rate between 95 and 98%—are a promising place to start.