Per data from the National Center for Homeless Education, the number of children experiencing homelessness during the 2021-2022 school year nationwide was greater than the total number of children in 28 states. Nearly 1.2 million children were either literally homeless (living in a shelter, or in unsheltered locations such as a car or tent) or doubled-up (sharing housing with friends or family beyond a unit’s designated capacity).
With an increasing cost of living, it is clear that families cannot afford to maintain housing. More resources need to be dedicated to families at risk of homelessness, so that no child will show up to school homeless. Scaling up programs like Housing Choice Vouchers, the Child Tax Credit, and rental assistance programs are an important first step. When combined with other supports (like childcare, employment assistance, or counseling), these preventative resources can help to prevent and end homelessness for families.