Natalie, an 18-year-old living in Washington, D.C., had a lot to juggle: She was working two low-wage jobs, attending college part time and living with a roommate in her first apartment. Her aspirations outpaced her circumstances, and after losing one of her jobs, Natalie became homeless at 19. Behind on her bills and unable to find a better-paying job despite relentless searching, Natalie was exhausted and depressed.
To achieve stable housing and economic security, young people like Natalie need comprehensive, career-building support, not just a minimum wage job.
While every young person’s story is unique, when they enter the youth homelessness system they need financial stability the most. Under the best of circumstances, it can be hard to find a job with growth potential and benefits and an affordable place to live. In D.C., rent has increased dramatically, along with inflation, while wages have not nearly kept up.
