Date of Conferral

3-30-2026

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Human Services

Advisor

Nicole Hamilton

Abstract

Homelessness is a worldwide, complex social problem that has impacted groups like women and children. In recent studies, researchers have demonstrated that homeless mothers can face mental health challenges and stressors related to parenting, while homeless children can experience emotional and physical difficulties. Parental resources have been cited as a tool to help homeless families address stress and development in distinct settings in current research; however, there was limited research on how faith-based non-profits utilize parental resources to help homeless mothers. The purpose of the generic qualitative study was to learn the perceptions and experiences of faith-based non-profit human services professionals who strive to develop and implement parental resources for homeless mothers. Using purposive sampling, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with three participants who were faith-based human services professionals. The theoretical framework used was Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory with five interconnected tenets: (a) microsystem, (b) mesosystem, (c) exosystem, (d) macrosystem, and (e) chronosystem. The data were analyzed using Braun and Clark’s thematic analysis process. Results revealed that employment support, housing assistance, and childcare were common initiatives used to support homeless women and children. For positive social change, diverse organizational leaders can seek to create parental resources workshops and training materials to help homeless families with distinct needs. Further research should include pilot studies on parental resources programs for homeless parents at faith-based non-profits and more insight into individualized resources for homeless children and children that address and promote holistic care.

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