Families on the Edge: Homeless Young Parents and Their Welfare Experiences. A Survey of Homeless Youth and Service Providers

Publication Date: November 2002

Publisher: Center for Law and Social Policy

Author(s): Bob Reeg; Christine Grisham; Annie Shepard

Research Area: Affordable Housing

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

Despite being almost universally eligible for welfare, many homeless young parents are not receiving needed services, and many arent even aware that the welfare program exists, according to this report released by the National Network for Youth and CLASP. Even when homeless youth know about Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), they have trouble accessing or keeping benefits. This report also discusses how the TANF living arrangement rule for minors may be operating as a barrier to TANF services rather than as an opportunity to help homeless young parents find safe housing. It concludes with recommendations for federal and state policymakers.

Supplementary files include a policy brief and a press release.