Domestic violence is the leading cause of homelessness for children across the nation. The American Bar Association states, “According to a 2013 study, 70 percent of mothers in families experiencing homelessness reported being physically assaulted by a family member or someone they knew.” On average, it takes families homeless due to domestic violence six to ten months to secure housing after they flee (American Bar Association,.org). ANTITHESIS The main argument I hear over this topic is that people deserve to be homeless because of addictions. However, this is not the case. In many cases, substance abuse is caused by the stress of homelessness, not the other way around. Many people begin using abusing substances as a coping mechanism to help with the pressures of homelessness (Mosel,.org). Other people might say, “Well, it is their fault for not paying off their debts.” In the United States, it can be very hard to get benefits. Some homeless people can get Social Security Disability Income, but it is very difficult. Also, it is very hard for homeless people to apply for benefits to start paying off their debts