Homelessness is generally defined as the condition of lacking stable, safe, and adequate housing. In the U.S., the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) identifies four primary categories of homelessness:
- Individuals or families without a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, such as those living in shelters, transitional housing, or places not meant for habitation.
- Individuals and families at imminent risk of losing their primary nighttime residence.
- Unaccompanied youth and families with children and youth who are unstably housed and likely to continue in that state.
- Individuals fleeing domestic violence or other life-threatening conditions.