I want to know more about the social support resources of homeless young people, thanks!

You’re welcome.

Thanks!

Many young people do rely on others as sources of support and resource. While service providers and housed friends and family sometimes serve as supports, other homeless peers often provide a supportive network, sharing resources and providing protection from harm. Young people will form street families, even labeling members as street moms, dads, brother, or sisters. In this way, more experienced peers offer younger or less experienced youth protection and connection. When young people describe their street families, they discuss finding a group of peers that can understand and validate their struggles while also providing information, access to resources, and someone who has their back when in danger. In addition to peers, companion animals (most often dogs) are seen as a significant source of motivation and comfort. Young people describe their dogs as the closest thing they have to family and a source of stability in otherwise unpredictable lives.