Enlarging The Tent

The data on the need for social supports – particularly around the impact of housing insecurity – are well documented. People experiencing homelessness (PEH) have far greater physical concerns, mental health needs, and socioeconomic challenges compared to those who have never experienced homelessness. And they have higher average health care expenditures.

In fact, 53% of PEH experience overweight or obesity (17% higher than those who were never homeless), 22% have hypertension (46% higher), and 9% have asthma (50% higher) (see Demonstrating The Health Status Of Homeless Individuals). Further, mortality rates among PEH can be up to 10 times higher than those reported . . .