Comparing adults in Los Angeles County who have and have not been homeless

✍ Scribed by Michael R. Cousineau

• Book ID: 102309113
• Publisher: John Wiley and Sons
• Year: 2001
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 137 KB
• Volume: 29
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0090-4392
• DOI: 10.1002/jcop.1043

✦ Synopsis

Abstract

This study compares the formerly homeless with those who have not been homeless on several characteristics, based on a telephone survey of the general adulate population. The study was conducted in Los Angeles County. Researchers estimate how many and what percentage of adults (aged 18 or older) have been homeless in the past 5 years and the types of places people stayed while they were homeless. An estimated 370,000 adults have experienced homelessness within the past 5 years, 5.7% of the adult population (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.2–6.2). A third were literally homeless (in a shelter, street, or car). Just over half (56%) stayed with a friend or relative while homeless. Nine percent had a mixed experience. Compared to those who were not homeless, the formerly homeless are disproportionately poor, African American, not in the job market, on public assistance, and in poor health. There are few differences when comparing place of birth, citizenship status, or length of residence in Los Angeles County. Yet many homeless have been able to achieve some economic stability. Implications for the development of intervention and prevention programs are discussed. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.