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 |
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] 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.
