Mark Corpuz

Uncertainty, struggle and stigma are just some of the threads that knit together the shared experiences of the homeless community. But for women who are homeless, there are several unique challenges only they know.

There are approximately 582,462 individuals experiencing homelessness in the U.S., and the numbers have only increased since 2020 and COVID-19. More than a quarter of those experiencing homelessness are women, some with children.

Susan says life on the streets is a constant battle for all homeless people, but for women it’s particularly hard. On top of the everyday challenges of finding food and a safe place to sleep, she says, women face the threat of sexual violence and cruelty.