Youth experiencing homelessness often face policies that punish instead of help. They are stuck in a system where being visible or needing shelter can get them in trouble. Recent actions by the Supreme Court and the administration make it clear that communities now have even more tools to criminalize basic survival.
Policies that restrict encampments and limit harm reduction programs hit youth especially hard, making programs that were already difficult to access even less available. It is not just unfair, it is dangerous for young people who already have few options and more vulnerabilities.
Supporting youth means addressing shared needs, building stability, and strengthening the community’s foundation. Meeting this challenge is difficult, but linking resources and creating spaces where young people can thrive is essential.
Use this page to learn more about the steps this administration is taking to criminalize homelessness and how we can fight back.
Written Resources
Helpful Webinars
From Crisis to Action: Combatting the Criminalization of Youth Homelessness After Grants Pass | September 2025
In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, communities across the country have seen or are bracing for a surge in the criminalization of visible homelessness. For youth and young families experiencing homelessness—particularly those forced to sleep outdoors—this ruling is a direct threat to their safety, well-being, and civil rights.
The National Network for Youth (NN4Y) and the National Homelessness Law Center (NHLC) hosted this critical webinar focused on equipping youth service providers, advocates, and local leaders with immediate and long-term strategies to protect all people experiencing homelessness, including young people from criminalization, advocate for humane policies, and ensure access to housing and services.
Partnering With Youth To Implement The Principles For Change: Addressing The Intersections Of Youth Legal System Involvement And Homelessness | January 2023
Systemic change cannot occur without the input from those who are most impacted by the systems. Partnering with youth with lived experience is vital to implementing the nine Principles for Change as you work to address the intersection of youth legal system involvement and homelessness in your community. This resource provides tips and tools on partnering with youth to restructure policies and systems.
The National Network For Youth, in partnership with The Coalition For Juvenile Justice, released a report along with hosting this webinar.
