Violence, abuse are prevalent
The prevalence of violence and abuse startled me, something Gerrard called “a little bit surprising.’’ More than half of adults had experienced physical or sexual abuse, neglect or were sent to live outside their biological families. Among youth, 77 percent suffered from some childhood trauma, she said.
Histories of trauma and long-term health issues are common
*Out-of-home placements include foster care, treatment facilities, and juvenile detention (Source: Wilder Research)
Another rising trend is health problems, she said. Mental illnesses have “continued to go up since 1991,’’ since the studies began, she says.
Chronic physical health problems seemed more noticeable last fall when she was doing interviews, she said, recalling persons with breathing problems or in need of walkers. Data confirmed the problems.
Advocate Liz Kuoppala, executive director of the Minnesota Coalition For the Homeless, says the findings speak to the effect of adverse childhood experiences and the need to strengthen societal safety nets so people can use them as “a ladder to climb out of poverty.’’ Her organization is a member of Homes For All, a coalition of housing advocates, service providers and developers working for comprehensive housing solutions at the Legislature."
http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/news/2013/04/17/minnesotas-homeless-are-profiled-new-wilder-findings
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