Homeless Students

A Record-Breaking Year – but not in a good way.

Every year, Washington State counts the number of homeless students, defined as students who lack a regular night-time residence. Over the 2012-2013 school year, it was reported that over 30,000, or 1 in 34, students in our state were homeless. That’s an increase of 3,000 from last year and continues the trend of a growing population of homeless students.

Of the 30,000, over half of these students are in elementary school — fifth grade or below.

Authorities say that it is difficult to pinpoint exactly why the increase is happening in such a dramatic way, but two of the most likely causes are lack of affordable housing and an increase in severe poverty within the state.

Homelessness hurts people of all ages, races and genders, but children are often the most innocent victims of all. Your support of Everett Gospel Mission allows us to reach out to homeless children and their families and help them get off the streets for good. One specific way you can reach out to a homeless child this summer is by making it possible for them to go to summer camp.

We’re collecting financial donations and the items listed below so that children living at the Mission can have the chance to escape the reality of homelessness and be just like any other kid at camp this summer.

Children’s Items Needed for Camp:

Flashlights
Backpacks
Bibles
Sleeping bags
Toiletries & bug repellent
Swimming suits
Children’s outdoor clothes
Funds for scholarships

Contact Suzanne Peterson at speterson@egmission.org or 425.740.2507 for more information about sending a homeless student to summer camp.