Transforming Youth Homelessness: A Matter of Perspective & Systemic Adjustments
Young, Homeless, and Unheard
Let's talk about the overlooked issue of youth homelessness in America. There are helping hands out there, but it's not a given for everyone. Today, we had a chat with the Co-Founder of Point Source Youth, a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing forced youth homelessness and changing systems and mindsets from 'cannot' to 'can.'
Welcome, Larry Cohen, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Point Source Youth. In the United States alone, approximately 3.5 million young adults and minors experience homelessness in a given year.
Point Source Youth aims to end youth homelessness in the USA. "The statistics are startling," shares Larry. "Ten percent of all youth are unsafely housed at some point in a given year."
Studies show that 69% of the young homeless population reports mental health problems, 33% have once been part of the foster care system, and 50% have been in the juvenile justice system, jail, or detention. Clearly, something in our system is broken.
Point Source Youth is not one to shy away from the problem. The organization's team members focus on finding solutions that place resources and power in the hands of youth, rather than the systems that have historically harmed them:
"We believe in a youth-centered approach, putting power and resources in the hands of youth over systems that have historically harmed them."
Why Address Youth Homelessness?
Why should we care about youth homelessness, morally and economically?
The Moral Stakes
"If we don't intervene now for youth experiencing homelessness, they may become the future's chronically homeless adults," stresses Larry. "And the daily harm young people endure while unstably housed is indescribable."
The Economic Burden
"Imagine astronomical expenditures going to waste on ineffective systems. That's what we're dealing with right now: policing, juvenile detention, incarceration, schools that resemble prisons, and emergency care – all adding up to a vast economic drain with little real help."
How Point Source Youth Steps In
The non-profit's target demographic is young people aged 16 to 24 years old. "Partnership with local agencies is key. Often, it's LGBTQ, youth, and community centers who work intimately with the youth and know exactly who needs housing," explains Larry.
Rapid Re-Housing
Rapid Re-Housing is a program designed to help young adults transition out of homelessness. By subsidizing the first month's rent, paying security deposits, and offering lease ownership, youth can exit homelessness with the security of long-term housing. Additional assistance, such as job training and mental health support, is also provided.
Direct Cash Transfers
Financial conflicts frequently contribute to family breakdowns, so Point Source Youth addresses this through direct cash transfers. Funding is provided to the homeless youth themselves, giving them the means to cover their housing expenses and reduce family tension.
Host Homes
Host Homes offer temporary, safe accommodations for homeless youth through well-screened mentors, family members, or peers. In places like Minnesota, youth can stay with teachers or school parents who are part of the community.
Family Strengthening
Family disputes can often be resolved through mediation and counseling. Point Source Youth applies this approach to help families reconcile and maintain stability.
Fighting Homelessness in the Digital Age
In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, Point Source Youth has adapted swiftly. Local partners transfer funds directly to homeless youth to cover housing expenses. Instead of referring youth to traditional institutions, the organization provides support through digital resources like Instagram, Messenger, and Zoom.
"We meet youth where they are at, both physically and economically," says Larry.
Empowering Our Future
With a budget of over $3 million and a team of 16, Point Source Youth is making a significant impact. The organization has a unique approach to fundraising and support – it receives grants from foundations, donations from individuals, and large donors, as well as providing technical assistance and expertise within the community.
"Growing the amount of available resources is essential to helping more young people," emphasizes Larry.
If you want to take action, here's what Larry recommends:
- Identify and mobilize the community's resources.
- Collaborate with homeless youth on creating meaningful solutions.
- Embrace an abundance mindset, thinking beyond existing economic limitations and barriers.
Tackling youth homelessness requires more than just a bed for the night. It requires a safe space, mentorship, and support for personal growth. Let's empower our young minds and create strong, thriving communities.
Want more insights on youth homelessness and Point Source Youth's mission? Listen to Larry's speech from the 5th Annual PSY National Symposium (2021) here:
For more information on youth homelessness, we suggest reading:
- Creating Housing for Vulnerable Groups
- Addressing the Challenge of Creating Housing for Vulnerable Groups
- The Right to Adequate Housing: A Guarantee
Check out the upcoming events scheduled by Point Source Youth on our website.
- Point Source Youth, in their mission to end youth homelessness in the USA, recognized the connection between homelessness and mental health, stating, "Studies show that 69% of the young homeless population reports mental health problems."
- Recognizing the importance of holistic development, Point Source Youth addresses the need for education and self-development, offering job training and mental health support as part of their Rapid Re-Housing program.
