Professor Gonyea’s New Study Gives Voice to Older Homeless Women Navigating Streets and Shelters
The authors call for shelters to move away from authoritarian, one-size-fits-all practices and toward models that recognize the distinct needs of older women.
CNN: Professor Gonyea Shares Aging Expertise in Light of Celeste Gay Viral Video
In an emotional YouTube video titled “57 and Broke,” aspiring actress Celeste Gay shared her struggles after leaving a corporate job to pursue acting in Atlanta, which led to financial hardship and regret. Professor Judith Gonyea from BU School of Social Work explains that Gay’s financial struggles reflect a broader issue, as many older adults—especially […]
MassLive: CISWH-Backed Project Improves Access to Child Care for Over 600 Children Experiencing Homelessness
Child refugees and those experiencing homelessness in Massachusetts have climbed aboard the COLORI Playspace Express — a vibrant, mobile classroom operated by Amal Alliance — to access early childhood education and social-emotional learning directly at emergency shelters. The program provides a safe, joyful environment that helps children cope with trauma, develop social skills, and experience […]
Miami Herald: Research by Professor Byrne Illustrates Long-Term Causes of Homelessness Among Older Adults
As the percentage of people over 65 experiencing homelessness continues to rise, those living in states with large older populations like Florida struggle to access resources. Highlighting rising housing costs and other recent causes contributing to this trend, a Miami Herald story cites research by Professor Thomas Byrne from BU School of Social Work that […]
Professor Gonyea & Melekis (PhD’11) Share Expertise on Older Women Experiencing Homelessness
The growing number of women experiencing housing instability in later life calls for a re-evaluation of their unique needs and struggles. Professor Judith Gonyea from BU School of Social Work and Professor Kelly Melekis (PhD’11) from the University of Vermont delivered a talk at the 14th International Conference on Aging and Social Change in Galway, […]
WLWT 5: Alum Reggie Harris (SSW’15) Accepts Position at U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Reggie Harris (SSW’15), a BU School of Social Work (BUSSW) alum and former Cincinnati city council member, has taken a new role as deputy assistant secretary of economic development at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In his statement announcing his departure from city council, Harris emphasized his ongoing commitment to public […]
BUSSW Researchers Investigate the Impact of the Fostering Connections Act
Youth aging out of foster care face a heightened risk of homelessness, a pattern with far-reaching consequences for their future stability and success. The 2008 Fostering Connections Act extended foster care eligibility to age 21, but understanding its effectiveness is crucial to providing a safety net for this population. A new study by Profs. Thomas […]
BUSSW Researchers Assess Anxiety & Depression in People Receiving Rapid Rehousing Services
While recent research has highlighted the critical role housing plays in overall health, Rapid Rehousing (RRH) programs have emerged to help individuals and families move from homelessness to stable living situations. However, despite RRH’s growth as a solution to homelessness, its impact on mental health has remained largely unexplored until now. A new study by […]
The New York Times: Professor Byrne & Colleague’s Research on Aging Homeless Population Is Featured in Respite Care Story
As the average age of people experiencing homelessness continues to increase, programs across the country are addressing a critical gap between hospital discharge and unsheltered living by providing respite care to older homeless individuals. These programs provide crucial support, but challenges remain, including limited permanent housing options and concerns about the quality of care these […]
The Brink: Professor Byrne & Colleague Argue Against Punitive Measures for People Experiencing Homelessness in Supreme Court Case
Despite evidence that punishing people sleeping outside is less effective at decreasing homelessness than solutions focused on housing, many local governments continue to rely on punitive measures. On April 22nd, the Supreme Court will hear the case City of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Gloria Johnson, which will determine if cities should be allowed to ticket […]