Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is the perfect time to think about what we are thankful for, and the perfect time to share our compassion with our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness. This year, Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is going to be held from November 16th through November 22nd.
This year’s theme is youth homelessness. While the issues associated with living in poverty are difficult for everyone, homeless youths encounter unique difficulties when trying to secure housing, employment, health care, and emergency services. Lack of opportunities and discrimination put American youths at great risk to be on the streets without shelter, appropriate resources, and protection. Youth in this case is said to represent the ages of 24 and under.
Each year, about 500,000 unaccompanied youths experience homelessness. Many homeless youths have left or aged out of foster care, fled abusive homes, or been rejected by their families because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This year, the campaign calls for a more accurate and comprehensive effort to count the number of homeless youth in the nation in order to determine the number of beds that are needed over the next decade. The campaign also calls for raising the number of available beds and resources to try and match current needs.
Schools and community groups can support this campaign. Event organizers can shine a light on vulnerable youth populations. Groups are encouraged to take actions that will be matched around the country to start a movement that will keep fighting long after Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. Find your local shelter (a few listed below) to see what resources they might need. Currently, there is only one bed available for every 125 homeless youth. Awareness and advocacy can help to increase the number of youth shelter beds increase and decrease the number of homeless youth on the streets.
Contact These Local Shelters to Help:
Abused Adult Resource Center
701-222-8370
Ruth Meiers
701-222-2108
Welcome House
701-751-1218
Youthworks
701-255-6909