The review of homelessness studies informed the methodology used for the South Okanagan
poject. It was decided that trying to complete a census of homeless persons was unlikely to be successful. The difficulty
in completing a census of a homeless population has been noted in the studies reviewed and is documented in the literature
on methodology (Perressini, et al., 1995). As well, it was decided that census data would be of questionable value for the
project as it would likely provide an inaccurate and limited snapshot of homelessness in the South Okanagan (Perressini, et
al., 1995). Given the challenges facing homeless persons, insight into how their situation could be improved is the project’s
primary interest. It was decided that face to face interviews of homeless persons would be a more effective method to obtain
this information. Conducting this type of survey is also consistent with a community oriented model of planning (Nueber, 1986).
5.1) Measurement Instrument
The survey tool used for the interviews of homeless persons (see Appendix A) was developed by an evaluation
sub-committee of the project’s Stakeholder Committee. The design was guided by the broad questions posed by the stakeholder
committee, the intended users of the information (Patton, M, 1997). The design was also guided by consideration for the kind
of information that would be most useful in informing the next steps of the project. The broad questions were;
- • Who are the homeless in the South Okanagan?
- • What are their current circumstances?
- • What are their needs?
Sample survey tools used in previous studies, as well as a review of the variables examined by those studies,
informed the development process. The survey was piloted with a small sample of homeless persons identified by the Homelessness
Outreach Worker and their feedback was integrated into the survey tool.
5.2) Sampling & Data Collection
A "Snowball Sampling" technique was utilized for the needs assessment. This method involves identifying key
informants within the community or group being studied to begin the sampling process. The interviewer then asks key informants
to identify other potential respondents (Rossi, et al., 2003). This process continues until no new
individuals are
identified. "Snowball Sampling" is particularly useful when examining a group of individuals that can be difficult to locate
or identify (Gabor, P, & Grinnell, R., 1994). The Homelessness Outreach Worker for the project was the primary interviewer
and utilized contacts made over the first two months of the project to begin the sampling. The stakeholders committee was
also used as a source of initial contacts for the sampling. All of the persons approached to participate in the study were
persons identified either through these key contacts or persons suggested by interviewees.
Data collection took place over a three week period, beginning in the third week of March and ending in mid
April 2005. The timing of data collection made it likely that information gathered would be primarily from the resident homeless
population rather than the transient homeless population that migrates to the area over the summer months in search of seasonal
agricultural employment. Survey interviews took place in all three major communities within the study area (Okanagan Falls,
Oliver and Osoyoos). The survey instrument was administered during face-to-face interviews conducted by the Outreach Worker.
Interviews were conducted at various locations where homeless persons could be accessed and would feel comfortable completing
the survey. The instrument was administered consistently and only included the questions on the survey. All but one interview
was successfully completed. The one incomplete interview was not included in the data set.
At the suggestion of members of the Stakeholder’s Committee and homeless persons consulted in the development
of the survey, a token $10 stipend was paid to all persons who participated in the study. This was intended as recognition
of the time involved for the interviews and the contribution that participants were making to the project. It was also meant
to convey respect for the worth and dignity of those who participated. This contribution was not used as a ‘lure’
and was not included in any literature or advertising.
5.3) Privacy & Confidentiality
An explanation of the study and assurances of anonymity were included in the instrument and verbally explained
to participants at the beginning of survey interviews. The survey tool did not collect any identifying information, such as
the respondents name, address, telephone number, birth date or exact age. However, the comments that were offered by respondents
could identify them given the small size of the community. Therefore, all completed surveys were stored under double lock
and key. Once data collection was completed, the information was aggregated for analysis and the original survey instruments
were destroyed. With the exception of a sample of personal comments provided by survey participants, only aggregated information
is presented in the study results.
