Homelessness is a crisis that affects individuals and families across La Porte County and nationally, but its impact on children is particularly heartbreaking. At Nest Community Shelter, we witness firsthand the struggles faced by adults who were once children who experienced homelessness or housing insecurity and are repeating this cycle as adults. We commonly have mothers with children stay at the shelter, and it is heartbreaking to witness knowing that the statistics are sobering:
- 1 in 30 children in the United States experiences homelessness each year. There are approximately 2.5 million children experiencing homelessness in the US right now.
- 42% of homeless children are under the age of 6.
- Children experiencing homelessness are twice as likely to repeat a grade compared to their housed peers.
These numbers tell a story of hardship, but they also underscore the urgency and importance of our work at Nest Community Shelter. We are committed to providing support and stability for homeless families, but we cannot do it alone.
The Complexities Faced by Homeless Children
Children who are homeless or housing insecure face a myriad of challenges that extend beyond the lack of a stable home. They often struggle with:
- Educational Disruptions: Frequent moves and unstable living conditions make it difficult for children experiencing homelessness to maintain consistent attendance and performance in school. This not only hampers their academic progress but also affects their social development and emotional well-being, which can have a lifelong impact.
- Health Issues: Homeless children are at a higher risk for physical health problems, including malnutrition, asthma, and other chronic conditions. The lack of a stable home also limits their access to healthcare, exacerbating these issues. Medical care can be complicated to obtain when a child and family are experiencing homelessness.
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma: The instability and uncertainty of homelessness can lead to significant emotional and psychological stress. Children may experience anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness, which can have long-term effects on their mental health and development.
Generational Homelessness: A Vicious Cycle
Generational homelessness is a remarkably complex issue. When children grow up in an unhoused environment, the data and our first-hand accounts show us that they are more likely to experience homelessness than adults. This creates a vicious cycle that can be difficult to break.
At Nest Community Shelter, we believe that addressing generational homelessness requires a comprehensive approach:
- Providing Immediate Support: Ensuring families have access to safe shelter, nutritious food, and essential services.
- Job and Education Support Services: We connect our guests to support services that help parents and children gain the skills and education they need to achieve long-term stability.
- Mental Health Services: Providing counseling and support to help families cope with the trauma of homelessness and build resilience. We also connect with community partners throughout La Porte County to facilitate the care needed for our guests.
- Community Engagement: We partner with local organizations, schools, and businesses to create a network of support for homeless families.
How You Can Help
The fight against homelessness requires our collective effort by our entire community and beyond. By supporting Nest Community Shelter, you can help provide the necessary resources and services to assist homeless families in creating a stable future for themselves and their children. Your contribution can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.
- Donate: Your financial support helps us provide shelter, food, and essential services to families in need.
- Volunteer: Your time and skills can make a huge impact, whether it’s preparing meals or helping with administrative tasks. Many hands do lighter work and make a lifelong impact.
- Advocate: Raise awareness about those experiencing homelessness and advocate for policies that support affordable housing and social services.
Together, we can make a difference. Homelessness is not an insurmountable problem, but determination and participation from our entire community are required to find a solution.
With dedication, dedication, and a collective effort, we can break the cycle of generational homelessness and give every child the chance to thrive. Join us at Nest Community Shelter to make a difference of a lifetime. Together, we can create a brighter, more stable future for all.
