~ According to a recent resolution, youth and young adults in the United States are facing a growing crisis of homelessness. The resolution, which was passed by the Council, highlights that 1 in 30 youth ages 13 to 17 and 1 in 10 young adults ages 18 to 25 will experience some form of homelessness this year.

The resolution also sheds light on the various factors contributing to this issue. These include neglect, lack of housing security, family rejection due to sexual orientation or gender identity, aging out of foster care, intergenerational poverty, abuse, and lack of employment opportunities.

The data presented in the resolution shows a concerning trend. Nationally, there has been a 10% increase in the number of unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness between 2023 and 2024. In major cities, this number has risen by 14.4%. The resolution also cites statistics that reveal how youth and young adults with intersectional identities are at greater risk. In Massachusetts alone, 65% of unaccompanied youth and young adults identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) and 26% identify as LGBTQ+.

Further data from Greater Boston paints a grim picture for LGBTQ+ youth of color. According to the resolution, over one-third (32.7%) are unemployed, while nearly one-sixth (15.5%) are unstably housed and almost one-third (30.9%) are food insecure. These statistics highlight the disproportionate impact that homelessness has on LGBTQ+ individuals compared to their cisgender heterosexual peers.

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Transgender youth face even higher rates of homelessness and discrimination within the shelter system. From 2022 to 2023 alone, there was a staggering increase of 28% in transgender youth experiencing homelessness.

However, it is important to note that these numbers may not accurately reflect the full extent of the problem due to inconsistent definitions and underreporting, particularly among LGBTQIA+ youth. Nationally, 29% of unaccompanied homeless youth have spent time in foster care, and 46% have spent time in juvenile detention, jail, or prison.

Locally, the issue of youth homelessness is also prevalent. During the 2023-2024 school year, more than 5,000 Boston Public Schools students experienced homelessness. The January 31, 2024 Boston Annual Homelessness Census identified a 17.9% increase from the previous year in unaccompanied youth up to age 24 and a 1.7% increase in families who were sleeping on the street or staying in shelters or transitional housing.

One of the significant barriers for youth experiencing homelessness in Massachusetts is transportation. This issue was highlighted by those who participated in the census.

In light of these alarming statistics and trends, the resolution commits the Council to continue raising awareness about this issue throughout the year. It also commends organizations and volunteers who are working tirelessly to prevent youth and young adult homelessness.

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