Lima, N., Souza, R., Feitosa, P., Moreira, J., Silva, C., & Neto, M. (2020).

People experiencing

homelessness: their potential exposure to covid-19. Psychiatry Research, 288, 1-2.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2020.112945

Under the Psychiatry Research, Lima reports that the current global pandemic caused severe

repercussions for the homeless community. Due to the existing illnesses, mental health

conditions, and the lack of unmet needs, the article indicates that the homeless populations were

at higher risk for contracting the virus. Regardless of overcrowding in shelters or living amongst

the streets, their pre-existing conditions lead to an increase in “anxiety, depression, violence, and

social dysfunction.” Therefore, researchers emphasize that homeless organizations should

receive the necessary resources and assistance in providing mental and physical care for

vulnerable populations. Similarly, Martin and Fuertes reveal the implications of how psychiatric

treatment and harm reduction interventions could improve the overall physical and mental health

of homeless communities during this time. (E.L) 

 Ha, Yoonhee P, McDonald, Nicole, Hersh, Shari, Fenniri, Stephanie R, Hillier, Amy, & Cannuscio,

Carolyn C. (2021). Using Informational Murals and Handwashing Stations to Increase Access to

Sanitation Among People Experiencing Homelessness During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

American Journal of Public Health, 111(1), 50-53.

Regarding the authors, who research under the Center for Public Health Initiatives and the

Leonard Institute of Health Economics, they present a public health intervention to scholars and

public organizations that could potentially lessen the increased exposure of COVID-19 towards

the homeless communities. In Philadelphia, a solution has been presented as local non-profit
organizations, and several artists have collaborated to create murals around the city. In doing so,

these murals provide homeless individuals the information to practice proper hygiene (remaining

six feet apart or washing their hands for more than 20 seconds) and find resources such as

handwash stations. With the help of the community and non-profit organizations, 15 murals have

helped more than 2500 homeless people within the city. Like Benavides, this article suggests that

with community officials and non-profit organizations, prevention of COVID can be possible

amongst homeless populations. (E.L)