The Decline of Single-Room Occupancy Housing and Its Impact on American Homelessness
By
barry-cotter
A baker's-dozen of insight crammed into one ring.
Summary
The article examines the disappearance of single-room occupancy (SRO) housing in America, tracing how the YMCA and similar institutions once provided affordable lodging for young men and low-income individuals. It explores the historical role of SROs as transitional housing and how their decline has contributed to modern homelessness, contrasting past affordable housing options with today's limited choices for those at the bottom of the housing market.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledFrom the 1860s, the YMCA began building single-room occupancy (SRO) units 'to give young men moving from rural areas safe and affordable lodging in the city.'
Today, a young man down on his luck in a new city is more likely to land in jail or on the street than on his feet.
Fifty years ago, he had another option. A place to wash up, get a hot meal, meet other young men—even start over.
All he had to do was put his pride on the shelf and get himself to—well, you can spell it out: the YMCA.
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