The Need
300K
There are nearly 300K unstably housed youth in California
There are nearly 300K unstably housed youth in California
Thousands of children in the greater Bay Area, through no fault of their own, are living in shelters, transitional homes, hotels and motels, cars, tents, and other places not designed for or suitable for housing families and children. Due primarily to a lack of educational opportunities and supports, these children are two times as likely as their housed peers to score poorly on standardized tests in math and reading, three times more likely to be placed in special education programs, four times more likely to drop out of school, and eight to nine times more likely to repeat grades.[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 |
The Tools To Learn
Our students receive backpacks, school supplies, and books as needed throughout the school year |
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Support Early Literacy
Our Early Literacy Campaign includes a Summer Reading Club, Family Reading Nights, and targeted literacy support for our students. |
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. |
Collaborate
We work with educators, housing providers, libraries, and other community organizations to better meet the various needs of our students. |
How You Can Help
[1] Homes for the Homeless, Access to Success: Educational Needs of Homeless Children and Families, 1993; National Center on Family Homelessness, “Homeless Children” America’s New Outcasts,” 1999.
[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.
