Some statistics about homeless youth and young adults:

  • The 2011 One Night Count estimates that there are 2,442 unsheltered people in King County, 34 of whom were confirmed youth under 18. The One-Night Count is considered to be a conservative measure – we know 34 to be a vast undercount of the issue of youth and young adult homelessness.
  • Family crisis is the most prevalent reason youth and young adults identify for becoming homeless.
  • There are an estimated 5,000 youth who run away in King County every year.
  • Up to 70% of homeless youth in Seattle are originally from this geographical area.
  • 60% of homeless youth experience trauma in their family before leaving.
  • Up to 35% experience sexual abuse in their homes before ending up on the streets.
  • Up to 60% experience physical abuse in their homes before ending up on the streets.
  • Up to 60% of homeless youth have been in foster care at some point in their life.
  • Up to 40% are LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, or Questioning).
  • Up to 50% of homeless youth have been diagnosed with a mental illness.
  • Homeless youth are remarkable young people with tremendous futures.