SVG
Too many young people in the District of Columbia experience homelessness without a parent or guardian — and go to sleep without the safety, stability and support of a family or a home. And, now the pandemic has further complicated their path to stability.
Who We Are
The Youth Economic Justice and Housing Coalition works to prevent and eradicate youth and family homelessness in the District of Columbia. We advocate for funding, policies, and programs that prevent youth homelessness and improve the outcomes and experiences of youth experiencing homelessness from birth to early adulthood.
Our Values
Fighting for a system with equity at its core
We will be successful when we lead with our values, stand in our convictions, and engage in innovative strategies. We envision DC as a city where equity is centered in all systems that affect youth and families impacted by homelessness.
Ending Youth Homelessness
We believe in investing in systems and programs that disrupt the cycle of homelessness for children and youth, whether they are accompanied by family or experiencing homelessness on their own.
Racial Justice
We believe that structural racism is at the root of disparities facing Black and Brown families in the District. Creating equitable and antiracist policies and systems is central to the coalition’s work.
Economic Mobility
We believe that racist systems and policies, and systems tailored to create an underclass have historically–and continue to–create barriers to economic mobility. It is necessary to remove obstacles and dismantle oppressive systems in order to end the cycle of homelessness and provide opportunities for economic advancement.
True Diversity
We believe in the power of many different voices. We strengthen our work by including racial, economic, gender, generational, experiential, and professional diversity in our coalition.
Real Ownership
We believe that people closest to the pain should be closest to the power, and should be instrumental in informing and driving the work.
Leverage Strengths
We believe we are all experts in our own areas. We honor and build on the strengths, knowledge, and skills of our communities.
Get Involved
Contact Rachel White, Senior Youth Policy Analyst at rwhite@dckids.org to learn more.
Featured Resources
Department of Behavioral Health Performance Oversight Hearing