Rethinking Notions of Diversity in the Context of Homelessness

The number of homeless Canadians has steadily increased since the 1980s and includes a growing numbers of teenagers, women and children. As well, First Nations peoples, refugees and ethnic minorities, along with people with mental illness, are believed to be over-represented among the homeless. However, exactly how these characteristics intersect is largely unknown. In order to better plan policies and services to meet the social and health care needs of this population, it is essential to know who they are. As part of a Community-University Research Alliance (CURA) on Housing and Mental Health, based in London, Ontario, researchers undertook an exploration of this question. The study’s intent was to explore the intersecting vulnerabilities among individuals who are homeless and have psychiatric challenges, and have visible minority/cultural, sexual orientation, and/or disabilities minority group status.

Publication Date: 
2008
Volume: 
34
Issue: 
4
Journal Name: 
Ontario Association of Social Workers Newsjournal