Seattle Public Schools is facing a significant increase in student homelessness. As of October, there are 2,235 homeless students this school year, which is a nearly 20% rise from last year's increase of 30%. This trend reflects a national rise in homelessness, as highlighted in a recent HUD report. In Washington state, over 41,000 students experienced homelessness during the 2023-24 school year, marking a nearly 15% increase.
A support worker, Jenny Allen, attributes this rise in homelessness to high costs and limited affordable housing. The influx of immigrants and refugees, especially from South America, has also contributed to the situation. At Dunlap Elementary, a support worker named Rogers Greene, who has been helping unhoused students for eight years, is now assisting more families fleeing conflicts in Ukraine and Afghanistan. He describes the challenges these families face, including navigating a new environment, learning a new language, and figuring out how to meet their basic needs.
Greene's role involves educating families about available resources and empowering them to access these services successfully. He supports immigrant and refugee families who often face language barriers and fear in seeking help. At Dunlap Elementary, he provides essentials like coats and backpacks, oversees lunches, and creates a safe environment for students. While unhoused students encounter significant academic challenges, Greene emphasizes their resilience and ability to adapt and succeed.
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