We look at the findings of the first-ever census of homeless youth in Baltimore and across the state. More than eight hundred young people surveyed reported that they were either homeless right now or living in unstable housing conditions. First we're joined by Ryan Shanahan, project manager for two projects aimed at preventing and ending youth homelessness: Youth REACH MD and Thrive at 25. Both are out of The Institute for Innovation & Implementation at the University of Maryland School of Social Work.
Then we talk with Lara Law, director of the Youth Empowered Society (YES) in Baltimore, a nonprofit drop-in center that offers a safe space for homeless youth and connects them to resources that help them get off the streets. We’ll also hear the personal stories of Ciera Dunlap and Chris Eames, two formerly homeless young people who now work with others at risk.