Stemming the rise of Latinx homelessness: lessons from Los Angeles County. Issue 2 (2nd July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chinchilla, Melissa; Gabrielian, Sonya
• Is Part Of: Journal of social distress and the homeless. Volume 29:Issue 2(2020:Nov.)
• Page Start: 71
• Page End: 75
• Publication Date: 2020-07-02
• Subjects: Homelessness -- Latinxs -- immigrants -- Latino -- homeless services; Social problems -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Stress (Psychology) -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Homelessness -- Periodicals; 362.505
• DOI: 10.1080/10530789.2019.1660049
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1573-658X

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This report describes a needs assessment of Latinx persons at-risk for or who are actively homeless in Los Angeles County. We conducted interviews with stakeholders ( n = 24) who work in homeless services, research, and policy. Themes from these interviews were categorized into domains along the continuum of homeless services. Language barriers and citizenship/documentation status impeded Latinxs' success in the rental market, increasing risk of homelessness. To engage Latinxs in outreach and services, use of familiar, local, and culturally competent institutions was described as critical. Shelters were underutilized due to concerns of family separation, or misconceptions about shelter use among non-citizen Latinxs. Rapid rehousing mechanisms were poorly suited for Latinx immigrants with limited access to public resources. To increase housing resources, engaging local providers who can obtain community buy-in for affordable housing was described as important. Overall, tailored services from trusted agencies in the Latinx community are critical to address service disparities.