5 Organizations Helping Improve The Lives Of Homeless Kids
Homelessness can be damaging in a number of ways, from the physical risks of not having shelter to the emotional trauma that accompanies constant instability. These issues are hard enough for adults to handle, and they're even more challenging for children. That's why organizations like the ones listed here work to help homeless kids get the support they need, from food and shelter to healthcare and recreation. This video was made with Ezvid Wikimaker.
Groups Supporting Homeless Children
| Name | Headquarters Location |
|---|---|
| Upward Bound House | Santa Monica, CA |
| Cake4Kids | Sunnyvale, CA |
| The Alex | Calgary, Alberta |
| Horizons for Homeless Children | Roxbury, MA |
| Families in Transition - New Horizons | Manchester, NH |
5 Ways You Can Help The Homeless
- Support organizations like the ones listed above
- Stay informed on issues that affect vulnerable populations
- Call your Congressperson and let them know where you stand
- Donate items like clothes and shelf-stable food to a local organization
- Volunteer at a local shelter or soup kitchen
Parents & Kids Talk About Homelessness
How Many American Children Live In Poverty?
Percentage of children ages 0–17 by family income relative to the poverty threshold, according to the Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics
| Poverty Level | 1980 | 1990 | 2000 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Below 50% of poverty threshold | 6.9% | 8.8% | 6.7% | 9.9% | 9.8% | 9.7% | 9.3% | 8.9% | 8.2% |
| 50% - 99% of poverty threshold | 11.4% | 11.8% | 9.5% | 12.1% | 12.0% | 12.1% | 11.9% | 10.8% | 9.8% |
Items Homeless Shelters Need
All shelters are different, and you should always check the organization's guidelines before you donate (some cannot accept used clothes while others can, for example) but here are some items that are most commonly needed. If you can afford to, consider picking some up and donating them to an organization that works with the homeless:
- Toiletries, especially travel-sized
- Diapers
- Feminine hygiene products
- Razors
- Baby wipes
- Socks
- Underwear
- First aid kits
- Blankets
- Clothes
- Hand warmers
Every Kid Needs A Champion
In Depth
Though many think of homelessness in terms of single adults, it is a problem that also affects children, with consequences that can include developmental challenges and lifelong trauma. Numerous organizations work to combat this problem, by offering direct relief for housing instability as well as services to help young people overcome its impacts. In no particular order, here are five groups offering assistance to homeless children and families.
Leading us off at #1 is Upward Bound House, a Los Angeles nonprofit with a mission to end homelessness among families with children. The organization's emergency shelters provide immediate help for youth and parents in crisis, with bridge housing available while clients work toward more permanent residence options through the Rapid Rehousing program.
Clients with Upward Bound House receive a range of support services, aimed at helping them achieve stability in their new homes. The organization's Urban Farm Project helps to reduce food insecurity while offering vocational training and community-building, and events like the annual Home Run for Kids raise money and awareness. Those interested in contributing can make a donation or volunteer.
Those interested in contributing can make a donation or volunteer.
#2 on the list is Cake4Kids. This organization's founder, moved by the story of a girl in foster care who had never received a birthday cake, set out to ensure that even disadvantaged and vulnerable youth would be able to enjoy treats and feel celebrated on their birthdays. The group has local chapters across the country, from California to Washington, DC.
Cake4Kids Ambassadors establish and administer regional chapters, and the organization hosts numerous events, including an annual amateur cake contest. The group shares news about its efforts, as well as personal stories from those who've been inspired to start local branches. Individuals looking to support Cake4Kids can donate, and those with baking skills can volunteer in their area.
Next up at #3 is The Alex, a resource hub for vulnerable residents of Calgary. This group takes a holistic approach to care, providing health and dental services as well as housing assistance, hot meals, and programs to build community. The Alex operates specialized facilities including health centres for youth and low-income seniors, with services like the Prenatal Program for young parents.
This group takes a holistic approach to care, providing health and dental services as well as housing assistance, hot meals, and programs to build community.
The Alex's Mobile Health units bring crucial medical services to under-served communities, with a Youth Health Bus to reach homeless and vulnerable young people, including LGBT individuals who may be at greater risk. The group's Community Food Centre also offers a place for area residents to eat, connect, and learn valuable skills such as cooking and gardening. Supporters can assist by volunteering or donating.
Coming in at #4 is Horizons for Homeless Children, which seeks to support kids and families who are living in poverty in Massachusetts. The program's early education centers provide enrichment and teaching, working with parents as well as students on challenges ranging from English language learning to cooking skills. The Family Partnerships Program offers assistance transitioning to housing independence and long-term success.
Through the Playspace Program, Horizons builds child-friendly areas within emergency shelters across the state, giving young people in homeless families a supervised place for recreation. The organization also engages in advocacy, calling attention to the challenges of poverty and working to develop policy solutions. And the group's Next School initiative helps place children in kindergarten programs. Supporters of Horizons can donate, volunteer, or lend support as advocates.
Supporters of Horizons can donate, volunteer, or lend support as advocates.
We'll conclude with #5, Families in Transition New Horizons, a New Hampshire organization assisting people in breaking out of the cycle of homelessness. FIT-NH provides emergency shelter and food for those with urgent need, along with transitional and permanent housing options in several cities around the state. The group operates the OutFITters Thrift Store, offering program participants vouchers to purchase necessities.
In addition to their housing options, FIT-NH runs a treatment center for substance abuse, and provides life skills training and case management to help families overcome poverty. Other projects include the Hollows Community Garden and Learning Center, and the New Horizons Hunger Project which teaches elementary students about gardening. Those who want to support FIT-NH can make a donation, volunteer, or host a fundraising event.
