Homelessness represents a significant and multifaceted challenge that profoundly impacts numerous individuals on a global scale. It is noteworthy that approximately one third of the homeless population comprises women, and alarmingly, roughly 90% of single parents experiencing homelessness are women. Moreover, among women facing homelessness, mental health issues and substance abuse are disproportionately prevalent, as has been observed in recent research by O'Campo and colleagues (2023). The factors leading to homelessness among women are intricate and diverse, as evidenced by scholarly investigations. Vulnerability to violence, exploitation, and marginalization, coupled with limited access to resources and essential life skills, are among the prominent underlying reasons (Milaney et al., 2020). Considering these critical challenges, the development of effective interventions becomes imperative. Addressing the issue of inadequate life skills necessitated the creation of a specialized program, spearheaded by occupational therapists (OT). This life skills program was meticulously crafted following an extensive review of the existing literature and thoughtfully incorporated elements from previous successful initiatives, such as the Housing First Program (HFP) and the Supporting Many for Residential Transition (SMART) program.
The proposed occupational therapy (OT)-led life skills program is set to be implemented at a transitional living facility under the auspices of the Father Bills & Mainspring (FBMS) organization, situated in the Boston, MA area. This program will be twelve weeks and specifically designed to cater to women between the ages of 18 and 30, who currently reside within the transitional living facility. The program's core emphasis will be on developing essential living skills, encompassing independent living proficiencies, as well as employment readiness capabilities. The overarching objective of this intervention is to equip the participants with essential skills, empowering them to secure gainful employment and successfully transition into self-sufficient housing arrangements.
Upon the conclusion of the twelve-week program, it is predicted that the participants will acquire profound knowledge and skills concerning independent living and employment. These proficiencies will be subject to evaluation through the administration of a comprehensive questionnaire. Moreover, the prospective long-term outcomes of this program encompass the participants' capacity to maintain sustainable arrangements for independent living and pursue meaningful and lasting employment opportunities. If the efficacy of this program attains the anticipated positive outcomes, the overarching objective shall entail its integration as a permanent fixture within the institutional framework of the FBMS organization. Furthermore, its propagation across additional homelessness organizations in the area of Boston, MA, would be a desired outcome, thus amplifying its societal impact and fostering greater support for those facing housing instability.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bu.edu/oai:open.bu.edu:2144/46623 |
| Date | 25 August 2023 |
| Creators | Hotsky, Carey M. |
| Contributors | Duddy, Karen |
| Source Sets | Boston University |
| Language | en_US |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis/Dissertation |
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