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Why Are There So Many Homeless Youth?

Why are there young people living on the streets all over America?

Behind the face of every homeless youth is another heart-breaking story: A 15-year boy abused by his alcoholic parent; or a pregnant girl rejected by her guardian; or a teenager trying to escape gang membership or a life of prostitution. In case after case, the main cause of youth homelessness is physical, sexual and/or emotional abuse from parents or guardians.

What about foster care?

Many of the young people living and dying on the streets of our communities are former foster children who have aged out of the system. They are too old for the foster care system but too young to take care of themselves without a family or support system. In fact, almost 40% of young people who come to Covenant House have spent time in foster care.

Aren’t there government agencies to take care of these young people?

Unfortunately, the needs of these teenagers and young adults go unrecognized by most local, state and federal government agencies. And this population is underserved by overburdened child-care agencies. As a result, thousands of these young people end up destitute and alone on the streets.

Why should I be concerned about homeless youth?

Beyond humanitarian reasons, the cost to our society is staggering. Today’s homeless youth will become tomorrow’s unemployable and chronically homeless adults. At an average cost that can exceed $40,000 per person a year (in New York City) for emergency health care, shelter and treatment of homeless adults, the economic burden is huge.

Without a stable home or support system, young people drop out of school and end up totally unprepared for the workplace. Without adult mentors, role models or educational opportunities, they don’t have the life skills, vocational skills or education to get a decent job. Eventually unemployment and lack of education and skills can lead to poverty, crime and drug abuse.

But worst of all is the human cost, the cost to our society. By falling through the cracks of our society, our communities are robbed of the potential talent and energy of these young people. These young people are our future, and their future needs our support.

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