How to Support a Friend Experiencing Homelessness

It is important to reduce the stigma around homelessness and show that you are a safe and trusted support. Some things you can do to help include:

• Provide or refer them to safe and stable housing in a supervised, structured and nurturing environment
• Engage them through strong personal connections with caring, trusted adults
• Offer food, clothing, financial assistance, educational and employment support

What Youth May Experience

A youth with no place to sleep may experience trauma on many levels. Even one night without a safe place to stay can risk exploitation, medical and mental health issues. Experiencing homelessness can have long-lasting effects that impacts their quality of life.

Why might a youth experience homelessness? Here are some possible scenarios that can lead to housing insecurity:

• Youth were asked to leave or kicked out of their home.
• Youth is experiencing violence in the home and it is no longer safe to stay there.
• Youth is couch surfing or sleeping at a friend or family member's house.
• Youth is sleeping in a car or at bus and train stations
• Youth aged out of foster care

Resources

Start with these sites to learn more about youth homelessness.

Illinois State Index on Youth Homelessness

National Coalition for the Homeless

National Alliance to End Homelessness