NYC Faces Crisis as Youth Homelessness Surges to Decade-High
A recent count of homeless youth in New York City reveals alarming numbers, highlighting a crisis reaching unprecedented levels. The annual survey, conducted by the city’s Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) in January, identified 418 young people aged 14 to 24 living without stable housing. This represents a staggering increase, more than double the number counted last year, painting a stark picture of a system struggling to cope with the growing need.
“Under the de Blasio administration, things weren’t perfect, but significant steps were taken to meet the needs of young people experiencing homelessness in the city, " said Jamie Powlovich, who advocates for homeless youth at the Coalition for the Homeless. She expressed concern that funding for programs serving this vulnerable population has stagnated despite the alarming surge, adding, “Unfortunately under the current administration, all we’re seeing is report after report that has historically high data.”
Of particular concern is the dramatic rise in the number of minors, ages 14 to 18, forced into unsheltered living. The count revealed 56 youth in this age group, a sharp increase from just nine the previous year.
The report additionally revealed a troubling finding: 73 young people were found staying in drop-in centers that, under a directive issued by Mayor Eric Adams’ administration, do not provide beds. Instead, these centers offer spaces for youth to “rest” but not “sleep.” This directive, as reported by The City, has drawn criticism from advocates who argue it leaves young people without the security and support essential for navigating homelessness.
The city’s shelter system is facing immense pressure. While officials maintain that existing beds are largely occupied, advocates like Sebastien Vante, associate vice president at Safe Horizon, which runs a drop-in center for homeless youth, emphasize the urgent need for more resources.
“More beds — we need more beds,” Vante stated. “We need more beds, and we need more money. Programs like ours need more funding so that we can continue to meet the growing needs of this growing population of youth who are experiencing homelessness.”
Julie Rodriguez, a spokesperson for DYCD, defended the city’s efforts in a statement. “DYCD and our providers continue to step up for runaway and homeless youth, offering immediate and longer-term services to anyone who needs them. DYCD providers connect all young people to available resources or refer them to other programs so they get the critical services they deserve.”
This youth homelessness crisis coincides with the ongoing surge of migrants and asylum seekers arriving in New York City.
The influx has pushed the city’s right-to-shelter safeguards to the breaking point. Earlier reports documented a significant rise in the number of young people denied shelter beds, highlighting the strain on the system.
As the city grapples with the complex challenges of housing insecurity and the impact of migration, the plight of homeless youth requires urgent attention and investment. The mounting numbers underscore the need for comprehensive solutions that prioritize the well-being and safety of this vulnerable population.
