The Need
300K
There are nearly 300K unstably housed youth in California
There are nearly 300K unstably housed youth in California
According to a 2021 report from the The Learning Policy Institute, Students Experiencing Homelessness: The Conditions and Outcomes of Homelessness Among California Students, "Statewide, 48% of all students met or exceeded state standards in English language arts in 2015–16, and 37% did so in mathematics. For students experiencing homelessness, those outcomes were 29% and 19%, respectively. For English learners experiencing homelessness, fewer than 9% met or achieved state standards in mathematics; for students with disabilities experiencing homelessness, this proportion was just 4%. Highly mobile students were significantly less likely than their peers to meet or exceed state standards.” [1] Not surprisingly, in California, the high school graduation rate for students experiencing homelessness lags far behind that of their housed peers, which has terrible consequences for the diploma-less students, the economy, and society at large. Indeed, we know that the lack of a high school diploma or the equivalent is the number one risk factor for young adult homelessness, increasing the likelihood of homelessness by 346%.[2]
Our Response
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One-on-one Tutoring
Our students get matched with tutors who provide high-quality, individualized tutoring and mentoring Support Early Literacy
Our Early Literacy Campaign includes a Summer Reading Club, Family Reading Nights, and targeted literacy support for our students. Collaborate
We work with educators, housing providers, libraries, and other community organizations to better meet the various needs of our students. |
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The Tools To Learn
Our students receive backpacks, school supplies, and books as needed throughout the school year Raise Awareness
We raise awareness about and advocate for youths experiencing housing instability and their educational rights wherever we can - with educators, politicians, the media, funders, local communities, and universities. |
[1] Burns, D., Espinoza, D., Ondrasek, N., & Yang, M. (2021). Students experiencing homelessness: The conditions and outcomes of homelessness among California students. Learning Policy Institute.
[2] M. Morton, A. Dworsky & G.M. Samuels (2017). Missed opportunities: Youth homelessness in America. National estimates. Chicago, IL: Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago.
[2] M. Morton, A. Dworsky & G.M. Samuels (2017). Missed opportunities: Youth homelessness in America. National estimates. Chicago, IL: Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago.
