| One solution to the problem of homeless families is to provide them with transitional housing, a step beyond the emergency shelter that is only a short-term answer. This study explored two transitional housing models and identified the program structures and supports that these particular programs have put in place to aid homeless women in regaining self-sufficiency. For the purpose of this study, structure was defined in two ways: one, the operational policies which maintain day-to-day order in the facility, and the other, policies which support the setting and achieving of goals leading to economic independence and housing stability. Qualitative interviews were conducted with women in both programs in order to examine the role that these program policies played in their success or failure at reaching independence. By examining the experiences of women in these two programs, this study was able to consider the role of structure in guiding the women in setting goals and maintaining order, and the effectiveness of these structures in assisting the women to reach goals of stable housing and employment. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
