May 26, 2009

HEY Statistics: Health, Homelessness and Services: Statistics About Current and Former Foster Youth

This brief, written by Honoring Emancipated Youth (HEY), states that health problems are leading causes of homelessness. While youth are in care, their foster homes are paid monthly to house and care for them. However, once youth age out of care, homelessness is a serious issue. Homelessness can be attributed to many factors, and among them is health: physical health, trauma, developmental delays, disabilities, addictions and mental health. Because current and former foster youth are more likely to experience mental health problems and have higher rates of other health needs, these youth are less likely to be able to retain stable housing. Services that provide therapeutic care, or employment and educational opportunities can help youth retain housing.