~ As November begins, the nation turns its attention to a pressing issue affecting young people across the United States. Youth and Young Adult Homelessness Awareness Month aims to shed light on the growing problem of homelessness among this vulnerable population.

According to recent statistics, 1 in 30 youth between the ages of 13 and 17 and 1 in 10 young adults aged 18 to 25 will experience some form of homelessness each year. This crisis is fueled by various factors, including neglect, lack of housing security, discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals, aging out of foster care, and economic struggles.

The numbers are alarming, with a 15% increase in unaccompanied youth homelessness nationwide between 2022 and 2023. In Massachusetts alone, a staggering 60% of unaccompanied youth and young adults facing homelessness identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), while 30% identify as LGBTQ+. The latter group is particularly at risk, with LGBTQ+ youth being 120% more likely to experience homelessness than their cisgender peers. Transgender youth face even higher rates of homelessness and discrimination within the shelter system.

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The consequences of youth homelessness are severe and far-reaching. These young people are at a higher risk for mental health struggles, including suicide, and have lower high school graduation rates. In Boston alone, over 5,000 public school students experienced homelessness during the 2023-2024 school year. Additionally, the latest Homelessness Census identified 132 unaccompanied youth as homeless in Boston in the year 2024.

Unfortunately, barriers such as lack of transportation and limited access to shelter and long-term housing often compound the issue for these vulnerable individuals. Furthermore, data collection on this topic is often incomplete or inaccurate, underestimating the true scale of the crisis.

In recognition of Youth and Young Adult Homelessness Awareness Month, The Council has adopted a resolution emphasizing the need for increased awareness, resources, and solutions to support young people facing homelessness. It is crucial to address this issue and prevent future generations from experiencing the same hardships.

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