Invisible African American Fathers: Bridging the Gaps in Policy Support

African American individuals who are homeless face unique challenges—barriers often overlooked in public policy and social services. While homelessness is a significant issue in the U.S., the intersection of race, parenting, and systemic inequities intensifies the struggles of this group. According to the National Center on Family Homelessness (2020), African American families experience homelessness at disproportionately high rates, with Black individuals constituting approximately 40% of the homeless population despite representing only 13% of the U.S. population. Additionally, systemic barriers in employment, housing, and social services exacerbate these challenges, as African American fathers are more likely to encounter job discrimination and limited access to public assistance programs (Henry et al., 2019). This blog explores the findings of a study on African American homeless fathers and offers actionable recommendations for reforming the Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA). In the U.S., 15% of homeless families are led by single fathers—a demographic often excluded from policies and services aimed at supporting families (U.S. Census Bureau, 2014). This figure contrasts with non-homeless families, where only about 8% of single-parent households are headed by fathers (U.S. Census Bureau, 2014). 

Additionally, regardless of housing status, single fathers in the general population account for only 17% of all single-parent households, compared to 83% led by single mothers. Among racial and ethnic groups, African American fathers are disproportionately affected, as Black fathers are more likely to experience homelessness than their White or Hispanic counterparts (Henry et al., 2019). (National Center on Family Homelessness, 2020; U.S. Census Bureau, 2014). These fathers face significant barriers, including job loss, addiction, and lack of housing. Many report feeling “insecure as parents,” unable to provide for or connect with their children due to shelter rules and societal stigma (Roberts & Pearson, 2024). Research findings indicate that beyond financial instability, fathers grapple with internal struggles such as depression, low self-esteem, and feelings of powerlessness, which affect their ability to parent effectively (Roberts & Pearson, 2024; Bradley et al., 2018).Additionally, the lack of support networks, including mentorship and peer groups, further isolates these fathers, making it harder for them to navigate parenthood (Roberts et al., 2014; Lemmons & Johnson, 2019).

Fathers shared stories of long-term homelessness attributed to structural factors such as insufficient employment opportunities and limited access to support services. For example, one father explained, “I’ve been homeless for five years due to addiction and job loss.” Shelters often lack family-friendly spaces designed with single father-led families in mind, creating additional hurdles for fathers trying to engage with their children. One participant noted, “I can’t bring my kids around because there’s no privacy” (Roberts & Pearson, 2024). Racial inequities exacerbate these challenges, as African American fathers frequently face systemic discrimination that limits access to resources and opportunities (Hanks et al., 2018). 

Furthermore, existing shelter policies often fail to consider fathers as primary caregivers, reinforcing the exclusion of men from family-oriented support systems (Rountree et al., 2019). In addition, many homeless fathers have trouble maintaining relationships with the mothers of their children due to issues such as incarceration, lack of stable housing, and unresolved conflicts. Some fathers expressed a strong desire to support their children despite these obstacles. One father shared, “My kids don’t come to me about every concern they have, which worries me. But I do my best to be there” (Roberts & Pearson, 2024). This underscores the need for holistic interventions that address both external and internal challenges faced by homeless fathers.

The FFPSA is a vital policy aimed at keeping families together, yet it fails to address the specific needs of fathers, particularly African American fathers. While the policy provides essential preventive services to at-risk families, it does not sufficiently account for the role of fathers in family preservation. Research shows that father involvement is critical to child development and family stability (Choi et al., 2022); however, the FFPSA disproportionately allocates resources toward services aimed at mothers and children. This oversight means that fathers, especially African American fathers, face systemic exclusion from critical support systems such as housing assistance, employment services, and mental health resources. The lack of dedicated funding and policy provisions for fathers exacerbates existing disparities, reinforcing cycles of instability and homelessness among marginalized families (Henry et al., 2019). Addressing these gaps requires a more inclusive approach that recognizes the unique needs of fathers and ensures equitable access to resources that promote family reunification and parental engagement. Expanding FFPSA eligibility criteria to include father-specific programs and ensuring that social service agencies provide holistic support will be vital to achieving meaningful policy reform (Grandfamilies, 2018; Doherty et al., 1998). Current frameworks focus heavily on mothers and children, leaving fathers with minimal support for housing, employment, or mental health services. Studies show that African American fathers are likely to be disproportionately impacted by policies that restrict access to housing based on past incarceration records, as well as systemic biases in child welfare interventions that prioritize maternal custody over paternal involvement (Henry et al., 2019). These systemic challenges make it even more difficult for African American fathers to access the resources necessary to maintain stable family relationships and avoid long-term homelessness. Addressing these gaps is crucial to ensuring equitable support for all family members.

Policy recommendations for improving FFPSA include introducing father-specific services such as tailored employment programs, legal aid, and mental health and substance abuse treatment designed for fathers (Choi et al., 2022). Studies have shown that employment programs targeted at fathers can improve financial stability and reduce recidivism rates among those with prior criminal records, leading to better long-term outcomes for fathers and their children (Alamillo et al.., 2021). Expanding housing assistance by increasing access to transitional housing and creating father-friendly shelter environments will help fathers maintain relationships with their children without stigma or restrictions (Henry et al., 2019). Research has demonstrated that stable housing is one of the most critical factors in maintaining parental involvement and reducing the risk of child welfare interventions (Cowan et al., 2009). Addressing racial disparities through culturally competent practices, staff training on racial trauma, and tracking service usage by race will help mitigate systemic barriers (Doherty et al., 1998). Case studies of programs incorporating racial equity training for service providers have shown significant improvements in the accessibility and effectiveness of social services for African American fathers (Voith et al., 2024). Strengthening community partnerships with trusted local organizations will reduce stigma and enhance service delivery. 

Additionally, incorporating mentorship and peer support programs can provide fathers with guidance and emotional resilience (Marsiglio et al., 2005). Research on mentorship programs has shown that structured peer support significantly enhances fathers’ engagement levels with their children and reduces feelings of isolation (Sartore et al., 2021). Finally, allowing states to customize FFPSA programs to address the needs of marginalized populations, particularly African American fathers, will enhance the policy’s effectiveness (Lemmons & Johnson, 2019). 

Supporting African American homeless fathers necessitates intentional policy reforms and community action. By addressing systemic barriers and tailoring the FFPSA to include father-specific services, we can create a more equitable system that empowers fathers to take active roles in their children’s lives. These changes are not just a moral imperative—they are essential for breaking the cycle of homelessness and fostering family stability.

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Biography of Author

J. Dontaé Roberts is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (CASWCM), and a clinical research

er. He has worked with disadvantaged adults, including the homeless, fathers, persons affected by diseases, and Veterans for many years.He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Roberts is currently studying to achieve a Ph.D. in Social Work through the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and the North Carolina Agricultural & Technical University joint program.

Edited by: Annie Hensler, MPP ’25 // Sam Lynch, MPP ’26 // Alina Devoogd, MPP ’26