To Address Youth Homelessness, New York City Turns to Those With Experience
August 19, 2022 by In recent years, there has been a notable shift across the United States towards empowering young people with “lived experience” to shape policies and programs in the human services sector. This approach is exemplified by New York City’s recent overhaul of its homeless youth services, where young individuals who have experienced homelessness themselves are central to decision-making processes. Spearheaded by Mayor Eric Adams, the city’s initiative includes rapid rehousing beds, increased rental assistance, and employment of youth with street-living experience to assist their peers. The collaborative effort, funded by $15 million in federal grants and involving multiple city agencies and community leaders, underscores a paradigm shift towards ensuring policies are informed directly by those affected, aiming to address the intersectional needs of LGBTQ, Black, and brown youth disproportionately impacted by homelessness. This inclusive approach, echoed in initiatives nationwide, reflects a growing recognition of the effectiveness and legitimacy of involving youth in crafting solutions that resonate with their lived realities, thereby potentially offering more effective long-term solutions to youth homelessness.