As a nurse or nursing student, engaging in community service provides a unique opportunity to deepen one's understanding of the social determinants of health and their impact on individual and community well-being. Reflecting on my experience working at Habitat for Humanity Restore, I have come to recognize the profound influence of safe housing environments and community and social support networks on health outcomes. In this essay, I will explore my journey of self-reflection, drawing upon my involvement at Habitat for Humanity Restore to elucidate the significance of these determinants of health in the context of nursing practice. With regard to the right of a person to have a home that is safe and good, the vision of Habitat for Humanity…show more content… These determinants are closely interconnected and profoundly impact the health and well-being of individuals and families. One important factor influencing the target population's health is housing stability. A foundation for both physical and emotional well-being is provided by stable housing, according to the Canadian Facts on Social Determinants of Health (2010). Stable housing is crucial for preserving health for those assisted by Habitat for Humanity and ReStore, as they may experience housing insecurity or substandard living conditions. Numerous detrimental health effects, such as elevated stress, exposure to environmental dangers, and difficulties obtaining healthcare services, can be attributed to insecure housing. Dunn et al. (2002) conducted research that emphasizes the negative effects of unstable housing on health, namely its correlation with injuries, chronic diseases, and mental health disorders. As a result, improving housing stability is essential to advancing the target population's health and wellbeing. There is a strong correlation between social standing and income and the health and happiness of individuals and families. The Canadian Facts on Social Determinants of Health (2010) describes how having little money might make it harder to get necessities like wholesome food, high-quality medical care, and secure housing. Health disparities may arise from social injustices and economic hardships experienced by those assisted by Habitat for Humanity and ReStore. Health disparities can be exacerbated by low income and social status, which can result in elevated stress, social isolation, and limited access to resources. The study conducted by Ross and colleagues (2000) indicates a robust correlation between health outcomes and income disparity, underscoring the significance of mitigating
