Youth Homelessness: Examining a Critical Challenge Nationally and Locally

One definition of homelessness is not having a safe, permanent place to live, such as living on the streets or in shelters. In Erie County, Pennsylvania, more than 1,100 people use emergency shelters each year, and the number of homeless people has increased nearly 15% in the past five years. Young people are especially at risk, often facing challenges like leaving unstable homes and having no support system after leaving foster care. In this presentation, JES Raimy Fellow Damali Donovan will focus on defining homelessness according to federal statutes, the current state of homelessness, the issue of youth homelessness and its connection to Erie County. 

-Damali Donovan, B.S.