Foster Children in Homeless Populations

Foster Children in Homeless Populations

The child welfare system is often referred to as a "highway to homelessness." According to estimates, about 20 percent of young adults in foster care are homeless when they turn 18. Also, about half of the homeless population in the country spent time in foster care facilities. Children and adolescents in foster care are usually placed in temporary housing until they can be reunited with their families or adopted. Unfortunately, many of these kids and adolescents fail to find permanent homes.

Out of every four young individuals in foster care, an average of one will eventually become homeless after four years. About 25% of these individuals experience homelessness within four years after being emancipated. The National Organization to End Homelessness estimates that each year, about 550,000 young adults and youth up to the age of 24 experience episodes of homelessness. Over half of these are under 18 years old.

Many different types of homeless youth need different interventions and support services. The experiences of these individuals are complex and require coordination across various systems, such as child welfare, education, juvenile justice, and health and human services. Even homelessness is a complex issue with varying definitions across different federal, state, and local agencies. For instance, the National Alliance for the End of Homelessness defines homeless youth as people who are 12 to 24 years old. On the other hand, the National Coalition For the Homeless defines them as individuals who are under 18 years old. The RHYA defines homeless youth as people who are either under 18 or between 16 and 22 years old, depending on their program participation. Researchers also classify them into different typologies to foster debate. The terms runaways, street kids, transients, low-risk, and high-risk are used to describe homeless youth. These terms reflect the varying backgrounds and experiences of these individuals.

Needless to say, the foster care system in Oregon is terribly organized currently, and it is a massive contributor to the homeless population we have in Oregon. More resources need to be provided in order to achieve any sort of goal of diminishing this issue. 

To learn more information about the foster care system and homeless populations in Oregon, click the link below:

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/BH-Child-Family/SOCAC/HB%202456,%202454%20Who%20are%20homeless%20youth%201%20pager.pdf