The Inequity of Youth Homelessness
The reality is that homelessness disproportionately affects marginalized communities. Black and African American youth are 83% more likely to face homelessness [1]. As a social services agency committed to ending youth homelessness, we must use our resources and programming to center racial equity and combat it in all its intersections.
We believe that our young people deserve the same opportunities as their counterparts, and we won't stop fighting until they get them. Understanding the demographics of youth homelessness is crucial for developing effective solutions to combat homelessness and provide the necessary support to those in need.
Systemic issues such as poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to resources contribute to racial disparities in homelessness. While the demographics of youth homelessness in Chicago paint a complex picture, there are steps that we can take as individuals and as a community to help close the gap and support young people in need.
Supporting Programs that target youth homelessness
Ignite has been targeting housing solutions for young people for over 45 years with partners and organizations across the city. Ignite’s unique programming meets young people where they’re at through outreach programs, 24/7 monitored crisis lines, emergency shelter, and opportunity for housing that prepares them for life as a self-efficient adult.
Advocating for policy changes
We need to lean on presidential and legislative pressure to create and keep laws and policies that fund programs like Ignite. Currently, Ignite and other social services agencies are fighting for the Runaway Homeless & Human Trafficking Act to be updated and released. This act is crucial in providing funds and resources to combat youth homelessness. View more about this act and become an advocate here.
Raising awareness through fundraising, volunteering and being vocal for youth facing housing insecurity.
There are so many ways to be involved and end youth homelessness! Interested in hosting a fundraiser or volunteering with Ignite? Reach out to us as volunteer@ignitepromise.org with your ideas! This year on April 13th, we’ll be hosting our Ignite & Shine Gala at the Ritz Carlton and we’d love for you to be apart of the magic! Sign-up to sponsor or volunteer here.
At Ignite, we know the statistics of youth homelessness It's a part of the reason why we've been working to confront the barriers that contribute to this crisis for over 45 years. We will always continue this work in creating a society where our young people have access to safe and stable housing and the resources they need. Stand with us and stand up against youth homelessness.
Sources: Berger Gonzalez, S., Morton, M., Patel, S., & Samuels, B. (2021). Centering racial equity in youth homelessness. Chicago, IL: Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago.
