The purpose of this research is to examine the barriers to food security for single adults with mental illness and/or problematic substance use living in supported housing on Vancouver Island. The objectives are: (a) to examine the difference in the level of food security for tenants of supported housing neighbourhoods located in urban versus a rural community; (b) to examine the barriers to food access experienced by the tenants; and (c) to examine which barriers have the greatest effect on the tenants. Using an explanatory case study design, I employ a community-based research method with a social justice perspective as the framework. I have used an explanatory matrix to illustrate the tenant identified barriers to food security and the social structures that affect these barriers. As well, I have made recommendations for integrating food security services and programs into supported housing projects. I have argued that food security is a matter of public health and an integrative approach is needed. I am suggesting a shift on a larger policy scale, to promote the health and well-being of tenants in supported housing. An adequate holistic perspective with an integrated, long-term strategy linking all the determinants of health would result in health-in-all policies. This strategy could reduce the existing health inequities that the tenants in supported housing experience. / Graduate / judy@nahs.ca