There is a need to understand youth homelessness differently than homelessness that impacts adults and families. HUD has very strict definitions of homelessness, for purposes of CoC funding, that differ from how youth homelessness is defined by other Federal programs. This chart shows how youth homelessness is defined by HUD, the Department of Education, and according to the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act.

The Youth Count Survey instrument includes questions tailored specifically to the unique needs and challenges faced by youth and is available to regions that choose to include the "Separate Count Activity" option within their contract agreement for Counting Us.

Here are five key reasons why a youth-specific homeless count should be considered. Please contact us if you would like more information on using Counting Us, and the Regional Command Center, to help conduct an impactful and accurate youth homeless count.