This toolkit was written to help parents living in shelters to take care of many of the common health problems that their children might experience. It is to be used only as a guide. This tool kit is not a substitute for professional medical help. (Authors)

Families living in shelters are the fastest growing segment of the homeless population. Heath Care for the Homeless Program has been serving families for nearly 25 years in family and domestic violence shelters as well as programs designed to keep mothers together with their children while they seek treatment for their substance abuse issues. The family team is made up of members from a wide span of disciplines that include nurses, nurse practitioners, doctors, mental health counselors, social workers and case managers. This toolkit was born from their collective experiences of serving families in need.

Living in a shelter can make staying healthy difficult. And it can make it harder to get better. Remember that one of the most important skills that you can use to help your child feel better is your kindness. If you begin with kindness, you have already taken the first step. (Author)

Please click here to link to the Boston Health Care for the Homeless link to this report.