No one could have guessed that we’d be starting the 2020 school year in the midst of an economic downturn and a global pandemic. Though this year has brought massive challenges and uncertainty—including schools transitioning to remote learning environments—YouthCare is continuing to provide shelter, food, and educational support to youth experiencing homelessness.
DID YOU KNOW?
We cannot let young people experiencing homelessness fall behind. These are the young people most likely to miss class due to housing instability and the stress of not knowing where they’ll sleep at night. These are the young people most likely to go hungry as they miss daily lunches normally provided at school. These are the young people whose families typically can’t afford the long list of school supplies that grows more and more expensive each year.
IN WASHINGTON…
As classrooms continue to be virtual it is more important than ever to provide youth with tools to stay connected to their education. Our staff are finding creative ways to engage youth amidst unique barriers brought on by COVID-19. But they need your help. Join us in supporting young people’s educational goals so they can gain stability, realize their potential, and achieve their dreams.
Check out three easy ways you can help youth experiencing homelessness feel prepared as they head back to learning—whether in the classroom, at home, or in one of our programs.
1.) Donate supplies safely through our online wishlist
To keep our community, staff, and young people safe, we are not accepting any in-person donations at this time. However, you can easily donate critical school supplies—laptops, notebooks, comfortable clothes—directly through our online wish list. Items are shipped directly to us and are safely distributed to our programs and youth!
You can also ship supplies directly to our main office from retailers of your choosing! Please ship items to YouthCare, Attn: Back-to-School Drive, 2500 NE 54th St., Seattle, WA 98105.
For any questions, please contact donations@youthcare.org
We encourage supporting local and POC-owned businesses whenever possible.
2.) Fundraise for YouthCare: Host a virtual Back-to-School Campaign!
Exciting news! Fundraising on behalf of YouthCare is now easier than ever. You can help young people continue their learning by hosting a virtual fundraiser to support our drive for urgently needed school supplies. Peer-to-peer fundraising is a fun and easy way for individuals, corporations, and groups to support YouthCare programs and make an impact. Mobilize your networks and friends with your own fundraising page—you can even connect your Facebook to reach more people! Get started now and directly impact the lives of homeless youth this school year.
Host a virtual Back-to-School Campaign
3.) Make a gift now
Make a gift now to support young people who need it most during this uncertain and stressful time. Every dollar amplifies our ability to meaningfully impact the lives of young people. You are a critical partner in our mission to support and empower young people.