Homeless women and their families: Characteristics, life circumstances, and needs

• Published in: Journal of child and family studies Vol. 1; no. 2; pp. 155 - 165
• Main Authors: Khanna, Mukti, Singh, Nirbhay N, Nemil, Mary, Best, Al, Ellis, Cynthia R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01-06-1992
• Subjects: Females; Homelessness; Needs Assessment; Shelters; Social Services; Virginia
• ISSN: 1062-1024; 1573-2843
• DOI: 10.1007/BF01321283

Interview data collected from random samples of women (total N = 100) living in 3 homeless shelters in Richmond, Va, are used to examine their domicilary status, work history, educational background, family & health history, social support, reasons for homelessness, & social service needs. Analysis indicated that a significant number of respondents (Rs) had moved as many as 6 times within the past 5 years for reasons including domestic violence, interpersonal conflict, overcrowding, & eviction. Many Rs were high school graduates & had job skills in the health care, educational, & clerical fields. Most had been raised by their natural or extended family & the majority had a friend or family member who continued to provide social support. Needs for housing, food, clothing, & transportation were identified, & revealed to be different from those of the homeless chronically mentally ill. The development of specialized services & an increase in the available number of low-income housing units are recommended. 13 References. Adapted from the source document.