What We’re Seeing
Youth homelessness is a growing crisis in San Diego County and across California. Nearly half of adults experiencing homelessness first experienced homelessness before age 25, making early intervention one of the most effective ways to prevent chronic homelessness.
Young people experiencing homelessness face constant stress while trying to meet basic needs, stay safe, and plan for their future. Youth of color, LGBTQ+ youth, pregnant and parenting youth, former foster youth, and youth involved in the juvenile justice system are disproportionately impacted and often encounter systems that are not designed for their developmental needs.
Ending youth homelessness requires safe, stable housing paired with supportive relationships and services that help young people move toward long-term stability.
THE Y'S ROLE
At the Y, we provide low-barrier housing resources and supportive services designed specifically for young people. Our approach centers dignity, choice, and relationships — recognizing that stability grows when youth feel safe, supported, and seen.
We offer a pathway of housing options — from drop-in centers and short-term supports to transitional housing, including apartment communities where young people can live more independently. These housing options are paired with support for basic needs, education and employment, and connections to health and mental health care.
Through partnerships with community providers, public agencies, and coalitions such as the San Diego Youth Homelessness Consortium and the California Coalition for Youth, we strengthen coordination, reduce barriers, and help ensure resources are used effectively.
OUR ANNUAL IMPACT:
Data shown reflects FY 2024–2025
PROGRAMS & SERVICEs
- Youth Drop-In Centers
- Groceries & Basic Needs
- Street Outreach
- Housing Navigation
- Rental & Deposit Assistance
- Overnight Lodging
- Rapid Rehousing
- Bridge Housing
- Transitional Living Programs
OUR VISION FOR change
FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Young people need more than housing, they need safety, stability, and relief from constant stress. Ending youth homelessness requires immediate access to basic needs and housing options paired with relationship-based, individualized support.
FOR FAMILIES
Families should have what they need to build strong, affirming relationships, strengthen economic stability, and reduce stress. When caregivers are supported, they can provide a consistent, reliable support network — helping buffer the impacts of adversity and prevent youth homelessness before it begins.
FOR PROFESSIONALS
Youth-serving providers need sustained funding and training to deliver developmentally appropriate, long-term solutions. Trauma-informed practice, professional development, and support for providers with lived expertise are essential to ensuring high-quality care for young people.
FROM INSIGHTS TO IMPACT
We pair on-the-ground experience with meaningful data to share what’s working, elevate youth voice, and inform policies that expand and strengthen the youth homelessness response system.
YFS IMPACT REPORT
(FY 2024-2025)
Learn how YMCA Youth & Family Services supports children, youth, and families to strengthen stability, connection, and opportunity.
YFS HOUSING SPOTLIGHT REPORT
(2023-2024)
Learn about the importance of addressing youth homelessness, the impact of YMCA Youth & Family Services’ housing and supportive services, and policy recommendations to strengthen the youth homelessness response system.
CONNECTIONS RESEARCH PROJECT
Learn how YMCA Youth & Family Services’ federally funded program supporting foster youth informed and shaped the CAAVE approach.
IMPORTANCE OF DEVELOPMENTAL RELATIONSHIPS FOR YOUTH EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS
Discover how relationships help young people heal from trauma and move beyond homelessness in this issue brief co-authored with the National Network for Youth.
NEURO-INFORMED SERVICES FOR YOUTH EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS
Learn how a neuro-informed approach supports youth experiencing homelessness and outlines strategies to help end homelessness.
EVALUATION OF THE CONNECTIONS 2020 PROGRAM
Developed with our partner, Harder+Company Community Research, this report shares insights from the Connections 2020 program and recommendations for supporting transition-aged youth through relational work readiness approaches.
CHILD CARE BRIDGE MODEL FOR FAMILIES EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS
Learn more about how child care is critical in ending a family’s homelessness experience.
