Location, Location, Location: Perceptions of Safety and Security Among Formerly Homeless Persons Transitioned to Permanent Supportive Housing

Abstract

AbstractObjective: Low perceived safety and security might have adverse health consequences, especially for chronically homeless individuals who are at high risk of victimization on the street. Permanent supportive housing (PSH) is an effective strategy to address chronic homelessness and improve residents’ health and well-being. However, it is unclear how formerly homeless individuals’ perceptions of safety and security reflect the objective neighborhood environment in which the PSH is located. This article presents a study of the perceived safety and security of formerly homeless individuals transitioned to PSH in and around Skid Row. Method: This mixed-method study examines the perceptions of safety and security of 24 PSH residents living in the Skid Row area of Los Angeles. Subsequent block-based neighborhood observations were conducted informed by these qualitative findings. Results: Although participants felt safer relative to when they were homeless, residents living within Skid Row felt less safe ...