Welcome to Canada: Why Are Family Emergency Shelters ‘Home’ for Recent Newcomers?

Katrina Milaney, Rosaele Tremblay, Sean Bristowe and Kaylee Ramage
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Katrina Milaney: Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada
Rosaele Tremblay: Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada
Sean Bristowe: Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada
Kaylee Ramage: Community Health Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada

Societies, 2020, vol. 10, issue 2, 1-17

Abstract: Although Canada is recognized internationally as a leader in immigration policy, supports are not responsive to the traumatic experiences of many newcomers. Many mothers and children arriving in Canada are at elevated risk of homelessness. Methods: This study utilized a community-engaged design, grounded in a critical analysis of gender and immigration status. We conducted individual and group interviews with a purposive sample of 18 newcomer mothers with current or recent experiences with homelessness and with 16 service providers working in multiple sectors. Results: Three main themes emerged: gendered and racialized pathways into homelessness; system failures, and pre- and post-migration trauma. This study revealed structural barriers rooted in preoccupation with economic success that negate and exacerbate the effects of violence and homelessness. Conclusion: The impacts of structural discrimination and violence are embedded in federal policy. It is critical to posit gender and culturally appropriate alternatives that focus on system issues.

Keywords: immigration; mothers; homelessness; structural violence (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A13 A14 P P0 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 Z1 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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