Research
Valliant Foundation is dedicated to making change beyond San Francisco by producing high quality generalizable public health research. Click below if you would like to join our team as a research assistant.
A Meta-Analysis of Sexual Assault Prevalence Among Homeless Women
Status: In progress. Author: Valliant et al.
The primary objective of this meta-analysis is to quantify the prevalence of sexual assault among women experiencing homelessness, providing a comprehensive and standardized estimate that addresses the inconsistencies present in prior studies. Additionally, this research aims to identify high-risk subgroups within the homeless population and determine the prevalence rates specific to these groups. By doing so, this study seeks to highlight disparities and vulnerability and inform targeted interventions aimed at reducing sexual violence within these particularly at-risk populations.
A Systematic Review of Type 1 Diabetes among the Homeless
Status: In Progress. Author: Valliant et al.
The purpose of this review is to assess interventions, outcomes, prevalence, barriers to care, patient experiences, and research gaps for type 1 diabetics experiencing homelessness.
Methods
This study followed PRISMA guidelines to synthesize eligible peer reviewed studies which reported on interventions, outcomes, prevalence, barriers to care, patient experiences, and research gaps for type 1 diabetics experiencing homelessness. Quality assessment tools were utilized to screen out low quality studies, and each article was screened by two independent reviewers to ensure consistency.
Grey Literature Report: Vital Signs, Mental Health, and Housing Needs
While this data is not meant to be generalizable knowledge, Valliant Foundation takes all appropriate measures to ensure respect for persons, privacy, and informed consent while we continue to collect this quality improvement data.
? Sample Size and Population
- Number of participants: 22 individuals experiencing homelessness
- Demographics: Primarily adult males; diverse racial backgrounds including Black, White, Native American, Indigenous, and mixed race
- Age range: 20s to 60s
? Vital Signs Trends
- Heart Rate: Varied widely (lowest: 55 bpm, highest: 130+ bpm); some tachycardia observed
- Respiratory Rate: Mostly within normal limits; outliers noted (e.g., 6/min and 96/min) suggest possible measurement or reporting error
- Blood Pressure: Elevated readings were common (e.g., 185/136, 210/137), suggesting widespread untreated hypertension
- Oxygen Saturation: Mostly within normal range (92%–98%), with rare hypoxia
- Temperature: Generally normal; a few readings below 36°C or above 37°C
? Pain and Mental Health
- Pain Scale: Ranged from 1 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain); most common responses were 5-8
- Psychosis: Multiple individuals reported seeing or hearing things others could not (e.g., shadows, paranoia, auditory hallucinations)
? Psychological Distress (based on 10-item stress scale):
- High frequency of responses like “very often” to:
- Feeling nervous or stressed
- Feeling difficulties were piling up
- Feeling unable to cope
- Feeling upset due to unexpected events
- Very few participants reported feeling on top of things or confident in managing problems, suggesting significant perceived lack of control.
? Reported Needs
Participants most often selected:
- Access to affordable or supportive housing
- Employment assistance
- Healthcare access
- Mental health and substance abuse services
?️ Speech & Cognitive Observations
- Several participants showed signs of disorganized speech or difficulty staying on track
- Others presented as lucid, coherent, and fully responsive
? Housing Circumstances
- Common reasons for homelessness included:
- Financial hardship (e.g., “low income, high rent”)
- Addiction and mental health struggles
- Systemic issues, such as waitlists or being targeted
- Loss of family support and personal crises
Geospatial Solutions for Homelessness
Valliant Foundation’s Geospatial Analysis Department leverages advanced mapping and location-based technologies to support the organization’s mission of addressing homelessness in San Francisco. By utilizing geospatial modeling tools such as Geographic Information Systems, the department analyzes data to identify patterns, trends, and gaps in service delivery for the homeless population. Key activities include mapping high-density areas of homelessness, tracking resource availability, and assessing environmental factors impacting unhoused individuals.
This data-driven approach enables more effective deployment of resources, informed decision-making, and collaboration with local authorities, NGOs, and community stakeholders. The department also produces visualizations and reports that highlight the intersection of homelessness with urban development, public health, and social services. Through innovative geospatial strategies, the department plays a pivotal role in crafting targeted interventions and measuring the impact of the foundation’s initiatives.
Geographic Modeling and Analysis of the October 26 2024, Outreach Mission.
Maps
Mapping (Supplies Only – 39 Interactions)
Mapping (Supplies Only – 39 Interactions)
Mapping (Supplies & Medical – 24 Interactions)
Valliant Foundation conducts vital sign assessments, including heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, temperature, and lung sounds. We also gather data on perceived stress and physical pain using numerical scales, and when necessary, document suicide risk assessments to ensure comprehensive care and support.
Mapping (Service Declined – 10 Interactions)
Analytics
Authors: Hyojin Byun, Ivy Wang, Collin Rizk, Benya Vishnevetski
Editor: Benya Vishnevetski
Data Collection: Sean Velasquez, Sarah Valliant, Maya Barbosa, Jesus Salcedo, Hiro, Malia Gomez
Chief Geospatial Analyst: Ivy Wang
Outreach Supervisor: Sean Velasquez
Program Director: Benya Vishnevetski
Published: December 5, 2024.
Mapping Impact
Geospatial Analysis Outreach Mission 10/26
The maps presented in this section are a cornerstone of Valliant Foundation’s efforts to address homelessness in San Francisco. By overlaying pinpoint data collected by our dedicated outreach volunteers onto detailed street maps of the city, we provide a dynamic visual representation of where and how our initiatives are making an impact.
Each pinpoint corresponds to an interaction with individuals experiencing homelessness, marking the type of assistance provided—be it the distribution of food and supplies, access to healthcare, or other critical services. This mapping approach not only tracks the scope of our efforts but also highlights geographic patterns and areas where resources are most needed.
These maps serve as a living document, continuously updated with real-time data to guide our strategy and improve our outreach. By understanding the spatial dimensions of homelessness and the distribution of our services, we aim to foster a more equitable allocation of resources and a deeper connection with the communities we serve.
From Data to Impact
The October 26th, 2024, outreach mission highlights Valliant Foundation’s strategic application of geospatial analysis in addressing homelessness in San Francisco. By mapping interactions and analyzing service distribution, the mission provided valuable insights into resource allocation, community needs, and service gaps. These findings are instrumental in refining outreach strategies to enhance efficiency and equity.
The mission underscores the foundation’s dual commitment to data-driven precision and human-centered care, balancing the delivery of essential supplies and medical assessments with respect for individual autonomy. By integrating advanced geospatial methodologies with a compassionate approach, Valliant Foundation continues to set a benchmark for impactful interventions for its beneficiaries. As the organization advances its initiatives, it remains steadfast in fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and advocating for systemic solutions to combat homelessness.