Legislators honored for support of homeless youth

An estimated 22,410 youth are runaways or homeless in Minnesota each year. Up to 600 youth age out of foster care each year, most often without the supports needed for full and successful independence.

Youth Moving Forward, a coalition of youth serving organizations is determined that all youth should have safety, opportunity and connection – the group is advocating for prevention and intervention to be established in Minnesota that charts a course toward the full elimination of youth homelessness.

Eight Minnesota legislators have taken the lead, and in 2009 effectively introduced and passed important changes in public policy. As a result, youth aging out of foster care now have access to health care and greater support to help them live independently and the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act received vital state funding to assure that when young people do experience homelessness that a safety net exists to help meet immediate needs.

To recognize and celebrate the achievements of legislators, community supporters, advocates and youth who have experienced homelessness honored their work in support of homeless youth.