"I Felt Better When I Moved Into My Own Place": Needs and Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence Survivors in Rapid Rehousing.

Accessing stable housing is a basic need for intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors, and rapid rehousing programs are a critical way to address homelessness. However, little is known about survivor experiences, needs, and outcomes in rapid rehousing services within IPV agencies. This study uses an exploratory approach to understand the needs and experiences of 31 survivors using vouchers facilitated by an IPV program in the U.S. Southwest. Thematic analysis of structured interviews resulted in four summary themes: getting to housing, managing multiple needs, accessing support, and facing barriers. Practice and evaluation implications are discussed.

"The Propellers of My Life" The Impact of Domestic Violence Transitional Housing on Parents and Children.

Housing and homelessness are frequent issues facing domestic violence (DV) survivors and their children. Several DV programs provide transitional housing (DVTH) to address the housing needs of DV survivors and their children. Despite wide use, little is known about the impact of DVTH, especially on child and parenting related needs and outcomes. Multiple structured interviews (82) were conducted with 27 parents with minor children living in DVTH in order to explore housing program experiences. Thematic analysis techniques produced three themes and seven subthemes about DVTH impact on parenting and child wellness. Overarching themes include: (1) DVTH helps to strengthen the parent-child relationship through a focus on family connection and health; (2). Transitional housing provides an opportunity for family stability via housing, material, and economic stability; (3). Time at DVTH allows family to access a diverse range of trauma-informed resources and social support to meet family goals. Barriers to these potential impacts are explored. Implications for practice with youth and parents include the need for extensive mental health and legal advocacy, programmatic models that emphasize resources, safety and the transition to permanent housing, and build on family strengths. Further research is needed to evaluate DVTH program outcomes.