Food as Dignity, Autonomy, and Care Among Unhoused Individuals in Illinois

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Abstract

Food access remains a critical challenge for unhoused individuals in Illinois, shaped by systemic barriers and complex social dynamics. Through focus groups and surveys with unhoused individuals and informational interviews with service providers, our research reveals that food insecurity extends far beyond simple food availability, encompassing fundamental issues of dignity, autonomy, and institutional obstacles. Our findings specifically offer insight into the importance of food beyond simple sustenance. We argue that food represents autonomy, care, and dignity for unhoused individuals in Illinois, highlighting the importance of creating and expanding accessible food systems based in dignity across the state.

Authors

• Karlia Nicole Brown, University of Illinois at Chicago

• Kaitlin Devaney, Institute for Research on Race & Public Policy, University of Illinois Chicago