The Hunger and Homelessness Support Network (HHSN)
Hunger & Homelessness Support Network
The Hunger and Homelessness Support Network (HHSN) is an interdisciplinary, cross-campus
initiative based in the College of Health that works to develop sustainable solutions
for UAA students facing food and housing insecurity. Our research team conducted multiple
campus-wide surveys to identify economic barriers that impact students' well-being and education.
Results of our initial (published) survey found:
8.3% of UAA students have experienced homelessness at some point while being a student.
44% of UAA students experienced food insecurity during the school year.
30% of UAA students experience housing insecurity and couldn’t afford to stay in their
current place of residence, even if they wanted to.
A follow up (unpublished) survey was conducted in November 2018 and found:
10.4% of UAA students have experienced homelessness
37% of UAA students don’t know if they can pay rent next month
Financial insecurity negatively impacts education and delays program completion for
46% UAA students
UAA employees, students and community programs provide services to help students get
what they need so they can focus on their education.
As we step into a new year, we are excited to welcome Dr. Jay Butler as the new Dean of the College of Health. A veteran of the public health and infectious disease field, Dr. Butler also has years of experience working in Alaska’s unique health landscape. He’s excited to bring fresh energy to COH’s goal of expanding its capacity to meet community-based health needs and train the next generation of healthcare workers.
The UAA College of Health proudly celebrated the recent renovation of Sally Monserud Hall with a ribbon-cutting ceremony showcasing the new high-tech labs and simulation center, expanded allied health programs, growth of the WWAMI program and critical partnerships addressing Alaska’s growing health care needs.
UAS celebrated the opening of a newly renovated nursing nursing lab on the Ketchikan campus on Friday, Sept. 19. The new lab represents an effort to expand the university's nursing graduates, specifically in rural communities across the state.