When someone moves from being unhoused to housed, the journey is often filled with hurdles. While finding a place to live is a huge step, achieving a sense of belonging is equally important—and far more elusive. Recent research published in PLOS ONE highlights the power of engaging in meaningful activities as a critical pathway for formerly unhoused individuals to feel connected and valued in their communities.

Why Belonging Matters in the Transition from Homelessness

Belonging is a fundamental human need. It includes feeling valued, respected, and connected with others—whether it’s family, friends, or even pets. But for those who have experienced homelessness, the road to belonging is often blocked by social exclusion, stigma, and financial instability. Without a sense of belonging, individuals may feel isolated and disconnected, which can lead to poor mental and physical health outcomes.

In this study, the authors explored how engaging in meaningful activities could help unhoused individuals develop a sense of belonging as they transition into stable housing. By analyzing interviews with 19 formerly unhoused participants, the researchers identified three main ways people can find belonging: through human connections, feeling like a “regular member of society,” and forming bonds with pets or nature.

Human Connection: The Power of Relationships

The participants in the study emphasized that relationships were a key factor in feeling like they belonged. For many, human connections—whether with friends, family, or community members—offered a sense of identity and value. As one participant put it, “Being where I am with people who care about me, I actually feel good.”

But building these connections wasn’t always easy. Many participants had complicated relationships with their families, often needing to mend or create new bonds. For some, chosen families—relationships they intentionally built—became their primary source of support. For instance, one participant spoke of the deep friendship they formed with a neighbor, describing how they would cook for each other and share meals. This simple act of reciprocity helped them feel connected and supported.

Moreover, many found a sense of community through recovery programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, where shared experiences with substance use provided a foundation for connection. “I built a community with the people in recovery,” shared one participant, underscoring how these relationships helped foster a sense of belonging.

Becoming a “Regular Member of Society”

Another major theme was the desire to feel like a “regular member of society.” For most participants, having a stable routine—whether through work, volunteering, or social activities—was crucial in feeling like they were part of the broader community.

Employment, in particular, played a significant role. One participant explained, “At my work… I feel like I’m meant to be right where I am.” The sense of purpose and routine that comes with a job helped many feel integrated into society. Others found belonging by giving back to their communities through volunteering or advocacy work. They saw these roles not only as a way to contribute but as a means of building connections and self-esteem.

However, this desire to be part of society was often tempered by financial and health-related barriers. Some participants struggled to find work due to disabilities, while others faced transportation challenges that limited their ability to engage in meaningful activities. These barriers created a sense of isolation and hindered their ability to participate in everyday societal roles.

Non-Human Connection: Pets and Nature as Sources of Belonging

Not all belonging comes from human connections. For several participants, pets—especially cats—became an essential part of their support system. One participant described their cats as “like my kids to me,” highlighting the emotional bond and sense of purpose these animals provided. Caring for their pets gave them structure, responsibility, and a feeling of being needed, which, in turn, fostered a sense of belonging.

Nature also played a significant role for some participants. Spending time outdoors, whether it was biking, walking, or just sitting by the water, helped them feel connected to the world around them. One participant, for example, spoke of feeling “grounded” when they spent time in nature. This connection to the environment provided solace and a sense of place, especially when human relationships were lacking.

Barriers to Belonging: Financial and Social Challenges

Despite the clear benefits of meaningful activities, the study found that many participants faced significant barriers to engaging in them. Financial limitations were a recurring theme—whether it was the inability to afford transportation to see friends or lacking the funds to participate in community events. One participant lamented, “Everything in the world is not for me… it’s for people with enough money.”

Health and disability issues also played a role in limiting opportunities for connection. Mobility impairments, for instance, made it difficult for some individuals to leave their homes, further isolating them from their communities. For others, mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression made social interactions overwhelming, creating a cycle of isolation and exclusion.

Practical Takeaways for Public Health Practitioners and Researchers

This research sheds light on the importance of fostering meaningful activities for formerly unhoused individuals. Public health practitioners should consider how their programs and interventions can better support social connections, whether through community-building activities, support groups, or opportunities for volunteering and employment.

Moreover, addressing financial and transportation barriers is critical. Offering free or low-cost activities and ensuring access to public transportation can help break down some of the obstacles that prevent formerly unhoused individuals from engaging in their communities.

Lastly, policymakers should recognize the role of pets and nature in promoting well-being and belonging. Programs that provide support for pet ownership and access to green spaces can offer alternative pathways to belonging, especially for those who struggle with human connections.

Join the Conversation

1. Have you seen the impact of meaningful activities on someone’s sense of belonging in your work or personal life?
2. What are some innovative ways we can help formerly unhoused individuals overcome barriers to community engagement?

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