Advancing occupational justice through street-based intervention: A case study examining strategies for increasing meaningful engagement in the face of homelessness and incarceration

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Approximately 2.2 million people are incarcerated in the United States, a disproportionate number of whom are African American, experience behavioral health conditions and are poor. Various federal and regional policies, compounded by stigma, keep the formerly incarcerated disenfranchised by restricting access to housing, employment and community engagement.

OBJECTIVE:

This case study highlights how public health crises of one large county led to the piloting of a multidisciplinary team to improve quality of life outcomes for those frequently arrested.

METHODS:

Occupational therapy was integrated into an interdisciplinary team developed to promote community integration among participants.

RESULTS:

Occupational therapy aided the client in overcoming barriers of community engagement while increasing skills for independent living.

CONCLUSION:

By highlighting evidence-based interventions and multidisciplinary approaches, the case study illustrates the complexity of need among this population and how occupational therapy contributes to housing stability, behavioral health management, occupational engagement and quality of life.