2013/10/22 by Roy Grant, Delaney Gracy, Grifin Goldsmith +2 · 1 citation
Health Professions · Economics, Econometrics and Finance · #Homelessness and Social Issues #Food Security and Health in Diverse Populations #Housing, Finance, and Neoliberalism
paper · doi:10.2105/ajph.2013.301618
openalex publication_date 2013/10/22 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/15
Family homelessness emerged as a major social and public health problem in the United States during the 1980s. We reviewed the literature, including journal articles, news stories, and government reports, that described conditions associated with family homelessness, the scope of the problem, and the health and mental health of homeless children and families. Much of this literature was published during the 1980s and 1990s. This raises questions about its continued applicability for the public health community. We concluded that descriptions of the economic conditions and public policies associated with family homelessness are still relevant; however, the homeless family population has changed over time. Family homelessness has become more prevalent and pervasive among poor and low-income families. We provide public health recommendations for these homeless families.