ABSTRACT
Homelessness in America has emerged as a national problem of increasing breadth and complexity, one that must be addressed by private and public sectors to effect a solution. Research results describing the homeless population and its subgroups indicate the need for broad-based housing and support service initiatives which are client preference-based and provide involvement with relational communities. Several examples are offered of religious organizations' traditional social service role with the homeless. More recent and proactive roles are highlighted, describing social action in arenas of advocacy, finance, and housing development. Finally, the possibilities and challenges of improved collaboration between religious and human service organizations are discussed, with suggestions for next steps.
