Overview
HRAC has conducted two studies of basic needs insecurity in the Portland State University community. A 2019 survey with followup interviews was the first in the nation at a university to survey both students and employees. This survey focused on housing insecurity, food insecurity, and homelessness. A 2023 student survey focused on housing insecurity, homelessness, and housing barriers and facilitators.
2023 Findings:
- 54.7% of student respondents experienced housing insecurity in the 12 months prior to completing the survey
- 19.1% of student respondents experienced homelessness in the 12 months prior to completing the survey
- 53.9% of student respondents experienced food insecurity in the 30 days prior to completing the survey
- Rates of housing insecurity and homelessness were higher among BIPOC and LGBTQ+ students, students with disabilities, students formerly in foster care, first generation students, immigrant students, and students from other marginalized groups.