Unique Gifts for the Holidays – Part I of IV
When considering the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness, it’s crucial to shine a light on the issue of youth homelessness, delving into its root causes and exploring potential solutions. In Colorado and across the country, November has become a time to focus on this pressing issue through National Homeless Youth Awareness and Action Month, a dedicated effort to raise awareness and inspire meaningful action.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis officially proclaimed November as Homeless Youth Awareness and Action Month in Colorado. According to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, in the 2022-2023 school year, nearly 18,000 Colorado students experienced homelessness. For the past 17 years, November has become a time to elevate the issue of youth homelessness, shine a light on the businesses, organizations, and volunteers working to meet the needs of youth experiencing homelessness, and to grow the commitment to intensify efforts to prevent and end homelessness among young people.
Family homelessness continues to be an issue in Colorado. According to the annual Point-In-Time Count conducted in partnership with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, there was an increase in family homelessness in Colorado from 2,151 in 2022 to 3,641. The overall chronic absentee rate for homeless students in the 2023-2024 school year was around 56%, according to a proclamation from Polis.
While homelessness is a complicated issue, there are several ways for community members to support families that are struggling with homelessness and other issues.
Lakewood’s Action Center, a nonprofit that provides resources and services needed to stabilize lives and promote pathways to change, offers several opportunities for people in need. The organization offers a clothing market, a free food market, financial assistance to help with rent and energy bills, and more. The Action Center accepts donations at theactioncenter.org, and now is a good time with Colorado Gives Day approaching.
Colorado Gives Day, which falls on Dec. 10 this year, is an annual day of giving dedicated to supporting nonprofits across Colorado. Donations made on this day are boosted by an incentive fund, increasing the impact of every gift.
Other organizations striving to assist families experiencing homelessness include Movement 5280, an organization that provides basic needs like food, showers, hygiene products, clothing, and a day shelter. Movement 5280 also provides support services, mental health programs, help with documents, life skills training, and mentorship.
Those who are interested in donating to Movement 5280 can do so by visiting https://movement5280.org/donate/. Volunteer opportunities can be found by visiting https://movement5280.org/get-involved/.
Whether by donating, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, every action contributes to creating a brighter future for youth experiencing homelessness. Every action helps build a brighter future for Colorado’s youth. Supporting these efforts ensures more young people find safety, stability, and hope.
