Food Security and Homelessness in the City of Anaheim

  • Ann G. Ora California State University, Fullerton
  • Michele Mouttapa California State University, Fullerton
  • Jie Weiss California State University, Fullerton
  • Penny Weissmuller California State University, Fullerton

Abstract

The primary purpose of the City of Anaheim’s 2007 Homeless Survey was to provide city staff with an opportunity to understand the characteristics of the City’s homeless population. The purpose of this study was to determine whether food insecurity was associated with: (1) homelessness, (2) demographic characteristics such as age, gender, and ethnicity, (3) mental and physical illness, and (4) family life among 85 homeless individuals in Anaheim. Although duration of homelessness was not associated with food insecurity, we found that older participants, White participants, and those with more symptoms of schizophrenia were more likely to experience food insecurity. The results suggest that a substantial proportion of homeless individuals experience food insecurity, and that many of them do not utilize food resources. Although the present study was limited in range, the results demonstrate the existence of food insecurity among the homeless of Anaheim. This problem may continue to exist unless new policies are enacted to compensate the current void in services. A follow-up study to examine the current policies affecting the Anaheim homeless population would provide a strong foundation and direction for future policies.
Published
2008-09-01
How to Cite
Ora, A. G., Mouttapa, M., Weiss, J., & Weissmuller, P. (2008). Food Security and Homelessness in the City of Anaheim. Californian Journal of Health Promotion, 6(1), 156-172. https://doi.org/10.32398/cjhp.v6i1.1300

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