Homeless Families: Single Mothers and Their Children in Boston Shelters

The author summarizes data on the growing number of homeless female-headed families, reviews the limited literature, and notes that more information is needed to develop services appropriate for these homeless families. A Boston study of 51 mothers and 78 children living in shelters is described. The data indicate that two-thirds of the women suffer from personality disorders, the majority have a long history of family instability, and many were victims of child abuse. The children presented severe medical and emotional problems. The author concludes by recommending the development of special intervention programs to meet the housing, emotional, and survival needs of these families.