Self-help strategies and resources among people at risk of homelessness: empirical findings and social services policy.
Although studies suggest that informal helping among poor people keeps millions off the streets of America, very little is known about self-help strategies and resources that exist among poor households and their role in the prevention of homelessness. This study examines the characteristics of homeless people who double up with their friends and relatives. It also examines their relationships with those who house them. Survey data revealed differences in the helping strategies and resources of those who double up. The respondents' sex, race, presence of children, and dependence on public assistance appear to influence the opportunities to double up with friends or relatives. Recommendations are made to enhance the living conditions among doubled-up households so they may continue to serve as a foundation in the prevention of homelessness. Although our primary focus is on the homeless population, policy recommendations include ways to help the low-income households that shelter them as well.
Marin
M V
MV
Department of Sociology, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA 99258.
Vacha
E F
EF
D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D006703:Ill-Housed Persons; D006798:Housing; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011640:Public Policy; D012944:Social Support; D014861:Washington