In the United States, millions of people experience homelessness each year, including over 500,000 unaccompanied youth. Since 2007, November has been recognized as National Homeless Youth Awareness Month. Young people face unique challenges that can increase their risk of homelessness, such as economic hardship, family issues, and failures in social institutions designed to support them.
Youth homelessness can manifest in different ways: some youth are unaccompanied, while others experience homelessness with their families. The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness defines homeless children and youth as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This definition encompasses children, youth, and teens who are awaiting foster care placements, who are migratory, or who live in unconventional settings such as cars, parks, and public spaces.
Several factors can exacerbate youth homelessness. According to the National Council of State Legislatures:
- People of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and young parents experience youth homelessness at disproportionately higher rates.
- Native American youth are more than twice as likely to experience homelessness compared to their peers.
- LGBTQ+ youth face a 120% higher risk of becoming homeless after coming out to their families.
This month and every month, NLIHC encourages everyone to show patience and visibility towards those experiencing housing instability. Healing and progress take time, and as an organization dedicated to housing justice, we remain committed to ensuring that all individuals have safe, accessible, and affordable housing.
To learn more about youth homelessness, please visit these resources: