Micro Mezzo Macro - Grade: A PDF

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Essay focusing on a chosen major social issue and the micro, mezzo, and macro approaches to that social issue....

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Emily Kilker Introduction to Social Work Professor Kathleen Evans 02/27/2020 Micro-Mezzo-Macro Assignment One major social problem that exists in our society is homelessness. Approaches that solve the social problem of homelessness on a micro-level include working with individual homeless citizens and families. One approach towards helping the homeless on a micro-level is donating. Homeless shelters are always in need of non-perishable items and clothing to help the homeless stay warm and fed. Another approach towards helping the homeless on a micro-level is volunteer work. Individuals in a community who are willing to help the homeless may volunteer to work an evening shift at a local homeless shelter. This makes it possible to figure out the needs of the homeless individuals and families, as well as how to help fulfill those needs. Approaches that solve the social problem of homelessness on a mezzo level include working with small groups or local organizations that focus on helping the homeless. There are a multitude of local groups and organizations that advocate for the homeless that provide support through community-based agencies, such as affordable housing, food banks, supportive services, employment training, job placement services, and more. Some of the organizations that advocate for the homeless include United Way, YWCA, Feeding America, Mercy Housing, and Goodwill. An individual who is willing to help the homeless in their community can join one of these organizations. Another approach towards solving the social problem of homelessness on a mezzo

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level is offering to serve on advocacy boards and participating in a local coalition, considering there is power in numbers. Approaches towards solving the social problem of homelessness on a macro level focus on solving the issue through social justice, stability, and change. There is a general lack of adequate affordable housing. One of the most successful housing-based solutions to reduce homeless is federal housing assistance. The two largest federal housing programs are public housing and federal housing vouchers. Housing provides a foundation from which an individual or a family can acquire the services and support they need to obtain stability, start the recovery process, and pursue personal goals. However, individuals or families experiencing homelessness must acquire comprehensive health care to manage and treat health conditions that often impact their ability to remain housed and obtain their personal goals. Guaranteeing access to quality health care must be a part of a community’s response to homelessness because people experiencing homelessness often have serious, complex health issues. Health care can be most effective when it is combined with housing assistance....