ABSTRACT

This chapter examines the relationship between sport and one particular aspect of social marginalization: homelessness. The aim of this chapter is to provide a thematic analysis of evaluations of sport-for-development interventions aimed at homeless populations and to discuss sport and homelessness through five key areas of focus: (1) defining homelessness, (2) understanding homelessness as social exclusion, (3) homelessness and sport interventions, (4) critical considerations, and (5) conclusion and future directions. The chapter outlines how homelessness and sport interventions are designed with a variety of program aims including: improved health, increased self-esteem, building of social networks and reduction in harmful behaviors. The ability to assess long-term impacts of homelessness and sport programs is also discussed.