Keeping the Homeless Housed: An exploratory study of determinants of Homelessness in the Toronto community

This study reconfirmed recent findings, that being “housed” does not automatically result in an individual no longer being “homeless”. Recognizing that homelessness is, in large part, a psychological state of disconnection from family, friends, social networks, and communities, rather than simply a state of not having a roof over one’s head. A more holistic view of these disconnections leads to the conclusion that more work needs to be undertaken to assist homeless individuals in re-developing strong formal and informal social support networks. Failure to develop such networks will inevitably lead to individuals re-entering the cycle of homelessness. Supports such as recreation, mental and physical health, skills development training/social enterprise, and community building programs will assist individuals in making the psychological transition from homelessness to safety that is required to ensure sustainable housing works.

Publication Date: 
2009