Worcester Family Research Project

The National Center placed family homelessness on our nation's program and policy agenda with the Worcester Family Research Project, the first longitudinal study to examine the experiences and needs of homeless mothers and children as well as the causes, correlates, and consequences of family homelessness.

Findings from this landmark study illuminated critical issues such as: childhood and adult risk and protective factors for homelessness; the needs of homeless and extremely poor mothers and children; the linkage between violence, poverty, and homelessness; and the health, behavioral and developmental needs of infants, toddlers, and school-age children in homeless and very poor families. Data from the study continue to provide an unparalleled resource for researchers and policymakers seeking to address issues related to family homelessness and extreme poverty.

The National Center partnered with the University of Massachusetts Medical Center to conduct the Worcester Family Research Project. The project was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, and the U.S. Maternal and Child Health Bureau.