Experiences of Food and Mealtimes Among People Living in Homelessness

Food plays a vital role in daily life, not only physically but also psychologically, socially, and existentially. People experiencing homelessness often face difficulties in accessing food. This study aimed to explore experiences of food and mealtimes among people experiencing homelessness using a qualitative descriptive design. Individual interviews were conducted with 15 participants recruited from an inpatient ward specializing in care for people living in homelessness. The data were analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis, with an emphasis on remaining close to the participants’ own descriptions. The findings provide insight into the different ways in which people experiencing homelessness manage their daily food strategies. Furthermore, how people perceive physical suffering related to hunger, but also on how support from aid organizations is experienced, and how moral boundaries may shift when the need for food becomes urgent. The intricate interplay between food insecurity, substance use, and social marginalization is explored. The study concludes that limited and unpredictable access to food has significant consequences for everyday life among people experiencing homelessness, underscoring the need for respectful and inclusive support systems within nursing practice and public policy.