Unearthing the hidden issue of rural homelessness – U of A

January 19, 2016

Solina Richter helps tackle homelessness in two rural Alberta communities

“Homelessness, while often hidden, is a reality in rural Alberta,” said Solina Richter, a professor with the Faculty of Nursing. “In fact, until around five years ago rural homelessness had never been identified, and now it’s an issue on the rise.”

Over the last year Richter, whose research focuses on the social determinants of health, has been involved with identifying and tackling homelessness in two rural Alberta communities: Stony Plain and Drayton Valley.

Homelessness in rural areas is different than homelessness seen in large urban centres like Edmonton or Calgary. “There aren’t people hanging around on the streets or sleeping on the streets,” said Richter, “They’re couch surfing and living in their vehicles. What you’ll see is people living in housing that isn’t affordable, suitable or adequate for their needs.”

Read More: https://uofa.ualberta.ca/nursing/nursing-news/2016/january/unearthing-the-hidden-issue-of-rural-homelessness