Teenage Homelessness

Across the United States, hundreds of thousands of teenagers are experiencing homelessness—sleeping on couches, in shelters, or in motels. These young people face extraordinary challenges, yet they are often invisible in national conversations about homelessness. At the National Network for Youth (NN4Y), we are working every day to change that.

Teenagers who experience homelessness are navigating this crisis alone, without a parent or guardian. Many are fleeing unsafe homes due to abuse, neglect, family rejection (especially LGBTQ+ youth), or systemic poverty. Their parents are often struggling with substance use disorders and/or mental health challenges. They are students, workers, caregivers, and dreamers—full of potential, but blocked by barriers beyond their control.

• Education Disruption Homelessness often leads to chronic absenteeism and high dropout rates.
• Health Risks Unsheltered teens are at high risk of physical harm, sexual exploitation, and mental health issues.
• Lack of Access to Vital Documents Without ID, birth certificates, or Social Security cards, teenagers struggle to access services.

At NN4Y, we work at the intersection of policy, practice, and partnerships to ensure no young person is left behind. Our work includes:

• Advocating for federal legislation like the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act.
• Reducing barriers in access to support by working to ensure there is only one federal definition of homelessness that includes hidden forms of homelessness often experienced by teenagers.
• Training service providers through our consulting services to better meet the unique needs of teenagers, including preventing their sexual exploitation and reuniting them with their families when safe and appropriate.

Research and practice show that youth-informed and community-based solutions are the most effective in preventing and ending homelessness among teenagers.

Whether you’re a policymaker, advocate, educator, or concerned community member—you can make a difference!

Homelessness should never be part of a teenager’s story. With the right investments, supportive services, and federal action, we can end this crisis.

Learn how we’re advancing national solutions and join us in creating a world where all youth have a safe place to call home.