The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #41095

Theresa Perlis, PhD¹, Don C. Des Jarlais², Cassandra Torrico¹, and Joy Settembrino². (1) National Development and Research Institutes, Inc, 71 West 23rd Street, 8th floor, New York, NY 10010, 212-845-4484, perlis@ndri.org, (2) National Development and Research Institutes, Inc., 71 West 23rd. Street, 8th floor, New York, NY 10010

Background: Youth homelessness is prevalent throughout the U.S. We examined homelessness among a group of geographically mobile youth who also use drugs. Methods: 108 traveling drug users with prior-year travel to >=5 cities were street-recruited in New York City for structured interviews. Ethnographic interviews were conducted with a subset of 20. Homelessness herein is defined as 1 or more nights sleeping outdoors in streets/other public places. This analysis focuses on three recently-visited cities. Results: 89% of travelers reported homelessness in 1 or more cities, and 31% in all 3 cities. Number of homeless nights in a city was negatively correlated with visit duration (p<.01). Many travelers reported traveling to visit friends or well-known squats. Indeed, 81% stayed with relatives/friends or in a squat "most" of the time in at least one city; however 45% reported some homelessness in the same city. Typically, travelers seek out other travelers in well-known hang-out spots so that they can spend the night with others to ensure their safety. Sharing of resources and looking out for one another are key components of this group's ethics. Although traveling alone is not uncommon, sleeping alone (or even staying in shelters) is highly undesirable. Conclusion: While homelessness is an inevitable consequence of the travelers' lifestyle, they have developed strategies to buffer the risks involved. However, the dangers associated with sleeping on the street and privations associated with lack of stable abode cannot be ignored. Programs targeted to these travelers' specific needs should be implemented nationwide.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to

• Recognize that some groups of homeless youth have developed strategies to lessen the dangers associated with homelessness.
• Understand that traditional approaches to homelessness may not work with this population. Specific needs should be identified and addressed.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.