" Many unhoused people work full time but earn starvation, unlivable wages. Some struggle to access mental health services or substance use treatment, making earning a consistent and stable wage nearly impossible. "
- Cori Bush

In today’s society, many people without stable housing work full-time jobs but earn wages that barely cover their basic needs. These individuals often face significant challenges such as inadequate mental health services and limited access to treatment for substance use disorders, which further complicate their ability to achieve financial stability.

Beyond the surface-level observation of low wages, this quote highlights systemic issues within society that contribute to homelessness and economic instability. It underscores how structural barriers can prevent people from accessing the support they need to maintain steady employment and improve their living conditions. The lack of mental health resources and treatment options for substance use disorders not only affects individuals’ immediate well-being but also hinders their long-term prospects for financial security and social integration.

Cori Bush, a U.S. Representative from Missouri’s 1st congressional district, often speaks about the challenges faced by unhoused individuals in her community. Her background as an activist who worked with people experiencing homelessness adds credibility to her insights on this critical issue.