The Issue: Children Experiencing Homelessness

More than 1,065,700 students experiencing homelessness—who “lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence”—were enrolled in US preschools and K–12 schools in the 2010–2011 school year, according to data from the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth. That figure represents a 13% increase in students experiencing homelessness over the previous academic year. Yet even this number is almost certainly an underestimate of the country’s true population of children who are homeless because not all of these children are enrolled in school.

The Campaign: Providing Shelter for Homeless Individuals

If 70 people donate $10 to this Grassroots campaign, then East End Cooperative Ministry (EECM) can fund 40 nights of shelter for individuals and families experiencing homelessness who participate in its Families Achieving Independence Through Housing (FAITH) program, thanks to matching donations by the EECM Board of Directors. Donations will be matched up to $700. The FAITH program works to reunite families experiencing homelessness by providing nonmedical respite housing in 27 residences. Individuals and families who participate in the FAITH program also receive case management and support services. Children’s advocates work with schools to help youth stay on top of their academics, and families on the path to self-sufficiency may receive help for rent, utilities, furniture, and cleaning supplies. Each additional $35 raised will fund another night of shelter.

All donations will be matched up to a $700 total by East End Cooperative Ministry's Board of Directors.

Check out more Groupon Grassroots campaigns here.