November is designated as National Homeless Youth Awareness Month (NHYAM). This important recognition raises awareness and promotes action to help young people experiencing homelessness. Organizations and individuals participate in events, supply drives, education, and social media campaigns to highlight the issue and support vulnerable youth.
Unlike general homelessness awareness, this month specifically addresses the unique challenges faced by children and teenagers, such as the impacts of trauma, lack of stable education, and vulnerability to exploitation.
The good news is tat the LCCS Independent Living workers are experts at keeping teens and post-emancipation youth in stable living situations. They help young people prepare for adult life by teaching them how to manage their finances, be a smart shopper and a responsible tenant, and how not to be scammed. The workers assemble furniture, advise them on leases, and provide the support that all young people need for stability, but for emancipating youth, can be hard to find.
Supervisors Amy Cox and Dayna Riley shared the story of one teen who emancipated from care, but decided to move across the country to live with kin. However, she made some poor decisions, and ended up returning to Toledo. With additional supports from LCCS, she secured housing and got her STNA. She has since gone on to further her education, get a better job, and maintain her own apartment without help from LCCS.