Homelessness: causes, effects, and policy responses

Homeless

This abstract presents a presage for what would be the establishment of a full evaluative analytical report about Homelessness as it pertains to aboriginal studies. The primary purpose therefore is to conduct an asset/gap analysis of Aboriginal homelessness. The data offered in a full report could be used to assist steering committees on Aboriginal homelessness and to therefore develop potential strategic plans that could address this growing issue. "Aboriginal homelessness continues to be a serious issue in a number of communities."(Government of Canada, 2003) the information for a full report would be collected by various methods such as surveys of homeless Aboriginal populations or specific literature reviews. "The immediate intended impacts of the Initiative were to help build the capacity of communities to address the problem of homelessness while making an immediate, incremental contribution to facilities and services for homeless people." (HRDC-based Components, 2003)

This topic is very broad and offers other opportunities for further studies such as the effects of homeless individuals living outdoors, disease and health concerns, effects of issues such as mental retardation, drug and alcohol abuse or issues as basic as the homeless being able to feed themselves. "The proportion of homeless people reporting themselves to be in fair or poor health is significantly higher than that reported by the general population." (Ministry of Social Development and Economic Security, 2000)

Thus, secondary reports or topics could include the need for affordable housing, food, employment assistance, access to health and existing community services and more. In addition, other possible avenues for this research topic include the wide range of available community services and if these services are in fact meeting the needs of the homeless. For example, can the homeless truly rely on assistance from the likes of homeless shelters, the Salvation Army and the Red Cross; and if not, what can be done to make the homeless more aware of the types of services and opportunities.

Description of the research design

The proposed report would entail a clear presentation on the problem as they pertain to aboriginal studies and on homelessness. For instance, why are people homeless? "Two trends are largely responsible for the rise in homelessness over the past 20-25 years: a growing shortage of affordable rental housing and a simultaneous increase in poverty. Below is an overview of current poverty and housing statistics, as well as additional factors contributing to homelessness. A list of resources for further study is also provided." (National Coalition for the Homeless, 2002)

The report would include a setting, validity of the problem and a timeline that would describe the historical concerns faced by the homeless. For example, cities like Toronto, Canada have been systematically monitoring the aboriginal homeless situation for years. "The City of Toronto released the first Report Card on Homelessness in February 2000, based on a recommendation by the Mayor's Task Force. The purpose of the report card is to monitor the issue of homelessness over time to determine if the problem is getting better or worse and to help the city and its partners develop effective and responsive strategies." (Members & Staff Working Group, 2001)