Case Study of a Post-secondary Institution and its Response to Student Homelessness

Abstract

From the moment students are accepted into post-secondary institutions, the focus is on their studies and successful completion. Far less is known about what institutions understand about students’ personal stresses and issues with their finances, housing and especially student homelessness. How are these issues identified and managed within post-secondary institutions? What is the role of the post-secondary institution around ensuring students have what they need personally to be successful in their studies? A case study design using an integrated mixed-methods approach was chosen to examine the perceptions of students, administrators, faculty and service providers at one post-secondary institution, regarding experiences with and assistance for students who are vulnerable to becoming, or are homeless. Also explored were existing and needed institutional information and supports for students, and clearly identifying responsibilities of institution and students. Perceptions varied regarding how known and accessible student information and services were for housing, food or finances, and who was responsible to ensure that these students’ personal needs were identified and met. Perspectives were similar around the need to improve policies and communications between students and institution staff and services on identifying students at risk, making centralized information and campus services more confidential and accessible, and resourcing service providers to be better prepared and able to assist vulnerable students with financial, housing and other challenges. Institutional policies and procedures need to be more transparent and student-centred, but students also need to take responsibility for their own welfare and seek out confidential campus supports before they experience crises.