Invest in a solution to end homelessness

YMCA Youth & Family Services

• San Diego County's population of unaccompanied homeless youth is the 7th largest in the country.
• In one year, overall youth homelessness has increased 33% with1,340 sheltered, unsheltered and unstably housed youth. The number of unsheltered youth alone increased 54%.
• Nearly 50% of chronically homeless adults report first being homeless as youth. 

Improving the Lives of Children, Youth and Families

Over the last 20 years, YMCA Youth & Family Services catches homeless youth at a tipping point where immediate access to safe shelter and services can be the difference between sliding into chronic homelessness and reliance on public systems or becoming a contributing member of society. Every day, the Y strengthens communities for kids, adults, seniors and families with programs that protect, teach, connect, heal, nourish and encourage. It’s how we help communities find the power of their full potential. As the largest YMCA Association in the nation, 1 out of every 8 community members and 1 out of every 5 children come to the YMCA of San Diego County for the programs and services offered. We focus our work in three primary areas: Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. We provide critical assistance to our County’s most vulnerable families and youth. 

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A Refuge in the Hills

In 2019, we secured a 25 unit apartment building in Escondido. This complex will allow 44 youth to experience safe and stable housing with supportive services to assist them in their quest for well-being and self-sufficiency. This building is a critical component of the Y’s innovative service model and will allow for increased impact in youth’s lives. 

Total Cost:

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Here is an inside look into the apartment complex. The untapped potential of what we can build together is endless.  We can create a dignified space for young people to call home. 

Inspired to make a difference? 

Let's Go!

Join Us

We need partners to help us make this building a safe haven for young people to feel secure, stable, and ready to navigate their future plans. We have secured funding for approximately $4.4 million dollars and are in need of support in the form of financial contributions equal to $2.4M to improve the building, renovate for safety, and reduce the principal balance of the purchase price.

Be Part of the Solution

Your gift not only supports our goal of ending youth homelessness, it sends the message that the community cares about empowering these young adults to reach their fullest potential. We will be providing naming opportunities for all gifts over $1,000. Gifts can be payable over 3-5 years. Examples of naming rights include:

For more information, contact Justin Lipford, Community Engagement Director. 

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Want to learn more?

We have conducted our own research, written about, and partnered with the top authorities on the subject of homelessness. Read, understand and connect with us to see how you can be part of the solution to end homelessness in San Diego. 

Social Issue Summary

Whitepapers

Videos

Hear directly from the youth we've served.