We Are Not Just Rent Receipts: Housing, Neighbourhood, and Community Reimagined By Formerly Homeless People
Description:
Research indicates that a significant number of homeless people have experienced several episodes of homelessness. In an effort to learn, from the perspective of those directly affected, how housing and neighbourhoods can meet their needs more effectively, this study directly engaged formerly homeless participants who live in two housing programs in Toronto in exploring what they need from their housing, neighbourhood, and community to avoid a return to homelessness. Images that emerged from the interviews include that of "home as more than bricks and mortar" and hard-to-house tenants as "more than just rent receipts." Participants noted, among other suggestions, that more affordable housing units, physical improvements to the subsidized housing currently available, and more funding for support programs geared to tenants' needs in the areas of employment, addictions, and mental health would help them to keep their housing and would reduce the stigma that tenants of subsidized housing encounter in the community. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]
Type of Resource:
Journal
Publication Date:
2005
Volume:
22
Issue:
2
Pages:
189-210
Location:
Ottawa