Rising Homelessness Hits East San Jose Schools: In just three years, the number of homeless high school students and families in the East Side Union High School District in San Jose has surged threefold, reaching approximately 900 unhoused students compared to 300 in 2020. This alarming increase is attributed to factors such as inflation, rising living costs, and the rollback of COVID-19 pandemic renter protections. The district projects the number to climb further, reaching about 1,000 by the end of the year.
Peter Allen, communications coordinator with the East Side Education Foundation, explains that the definition of homelessness has broadened to include students living not only on the streets but also in vehicles, sharing crowded living spaces, or couch surfing. More students are now willing to self-identify, and the district has improved its identification of students in need.
They dont have a consistent place to live every night, says Allen. That causes trauma and doesnt make their education any easier.
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The East Side Union High School District and the foundation are collaborating to address the escalating needs of these students. The foundation serves as the fiscal agent for the districts McKinney-Vento Program, which offers direct support and services to homeless students, ensuring their academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs are met. As part of the program, unhoused students receive warm clothes and gift cards during the holiday season.
In the past, the program raised $30,000, providing $100 each to 300 students. With the current count at 900 students, it would require $90,000. Monetary contributions go to students in the form of gift cards, allowing them to purchase clothing, school supplies, or a special holiday meal. The district has bolstered services to students through partnerships with the Santa Clara County Office of Behavioral Health and nonprofit community specialists. On-site social workers and counselors connect students with additional support.
Superintendent Glenn Vander Zee emphasizes the economic challenges faced by students, noting that the state’s school funding formula puts East Side Union at a disadvantage compared to wealthier districts. The formula, based on property taxes and average daily attendance, favors affluent communities.
We also know the economic polarity in our area creates hardships for our students, says Vander Zee. Students are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet.
The district, with approximately 21,000 students, identified 1,232 students as unhoused at the end of the academic year in June. While the number has dropped to 900, Vander Zee expects it to rise again.
This (program) is an opportunity for us to give these students a bit of a boost at this time of year, says Vander Zee, acknowledging that it doesn’t address the underlying issues.
The district plans a holiday event for homeless students during the Dec. 11 weekend, offering resources and support.
Its to provide as much direct support as we can to students this holiday season, just to let them know we value and support them, says Sergio Diaz Luna, district spokesperson. Hopefully, we can provide a gift for each one.
Our Reader’s Queries
What percentage of students end up homeless?
Homeless youth and students are a vulnerable group that accounts for three percent of California’s student population (2022-23 Census data). Access to information, resources, and educational outcomes is crucial for their well-being and success. It is essential to provide them with the necessary support and assistance to ensure they have equal opportunities to succeed in their academic pursuits. Despite the challenges they face, with the right resources and support, homeless youth can achieve their full potential and thrive in their education.
How do I report homeless people in San Jose CA?
To report any concerns regarding homeless encampments, simply reach out to the Homeless Helpline at 408-975-1440 or send an email to homelessconcerns@sanjoseca.gov. Once your concerns have been reported, outreach teams will be dispatched to the encampment sites to address the issue. In some cases, outreach teams may even visit the sites before abatement to ensure that everything is under control. Rest assured that your concerns will be taken seriously and addressed promptly.
How many homeless youth are in San Jose?
The latest annual census in San Jose has revealed that a staggering 6,340 people are homeless, with hundreds of them being youth. The figures show a 10.7% decrease in unsheltered individuals, but a 3.4% increase in chronic homelessness. The number of homeless veterans has also risen by 1.8%. Shockingly, the number of homeless youth has decreased by 19.4%, but there are still 801 young people without a home. These statistics highlight the ongoing issue of homelessness in San Jose and the urgent need for solutions to support those in need.