Understanding Research on Homelessness in Toronto: a Literature Review

This literature review is an attempt to synthesize Canadian research on homelessness, with a specific focus on research conducted in Toronto. That is, the literature presented here will emphasize studies conducted in Toronto and/or studies from elsewhere in Canada that are seen to speak more directly to the issues relevant in the Toronto context. The approach used here will be based on a "determinants of health" perspective; one that seeks to link structural factors (poverty, housing, employment and racism, for instance) with personal histories and characteristics (abuse, family breakdown, etc.) in an attempt to make sense of the factors that lead to, and sustain homelessness in Canada.

Publication Date: 
2004