A low supply of housing pushes more young people to live in unsafe places, couch surf, or rely on those who would take advantage of them in exchange for a place to sleep.
Lack of Affordable Housing Leads to Youth Homelessness
30%
of all people experiencing homelessness in the U.S are in California
1 in 4
people who are eligible for housing assistance receive it
50%
of the nation’s unsheltered homeless population lives on the streets of California
The Affordable Housing Crisis
“Many of the 14.5 million eligible households not receiving assistance are instead spending years or even decades on affordable housing waitlists”
In California there are only 24 affordable homes for every 100 extremely low-income renters, equating to a shortage of 960,000 affordable homes. Nationwide, there are 37 affordable homes for every 100 extremely low-income households . More people experience homelessness in California than any other state, largely due to the unattainable costs of housing and costs of living, according to experts. Californians account for 30% of all people experiencing homelessness in the U.S., but just 12% of the general U.S. population (HUD). In addition, 50% of the nation’s unsheltered homeless population lives on the streets of California (HUD).
Due to historic and structural racism, people of color are more likely to be extremely low-income, and are therefore at higher risk of experiencing homelessness.
Affordable housing programs are not keeping up with the need. Only 1 in 4 Americans who are eligible for housing assistance receive it; many of the 14.5 million eligible households not receiving assistance are instead spending years or even decades on affordable housing waitlists.
How We Help Young People Find Housing
H20 is CHC’s Rapid Re-Housing program which features short-term housing assistance along with all of CHC’s supportive services. Case managers work with youth and local landlords to find appropriate apartments, then assist youth with move-in costs, rental assistance and weekly case management to ensure success. After two years youth take over their apartment leases.
Help Young People Facing the Housing Shortage
Your support helps us provide transitional and supportive housing programs to help young people overcome homelessness.
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Know the Issues That Drive Youth Homelessness
Young people experiencing homelessness face numerous challenges and barriers that hinder their journey toward sustainable independence and a hope-filled future.
