More Than School Supplies: How Homelessness Impacts Children Going Back to School

Every Student Deserves a Strong Start 

Why is back-to-school especially difficult for homeless youth, and how can we support them? 

For any student, back-to-school season brings excitement: new backpacks, fresh notebooks, friendly faces, and routines. But for thousands of children and teens facing homelessness, the start of the school year can feel overwhelming rather than exciting. All students deserve a strong start to the school year. Yet homeless and housing-insecure youth often start the school year carrying burdens far beyond school supplies.

The Hidden Challenges 

A student experiencing homelessness may be living in a car, a motel, or currently looking for secure housing. This can also be true for youth who come from unstable homes and are often moving around. Unstable and unavailable housing creates a harsh and unhealthy environment for students to succeed. 

Imagine trying to do projects, study without distractions, and complete your homework without having access to a room or flexibility, as well as a proper Wi-Fi connection, which is necessary across local school districts when completing assignments after school. It is also a struggle for many to have reliable transportation, which often eliminates the possibility of participating in after-school activities like school clubs and sports. 

We can see it add up: 

• School supplies, backpacks, and notebooks 

• Pens, pencils, and calculators 

• School clothing and shoes 

• Hygiene products 

• Sports or activity fees 

• Transportation expenses 

• Computer access or Wi-Fi 

What may seem like ordinary back-to-school expenses can quickly become overwhelming for families already facing financial hardship. 

The Emotional Weight 

The challenge isn’t only financial. Homeless youth often experience stress, anxiety, and isolation. There is a sense of misunderstanding about their situation, and they avoid asking for help due to fear of being judged by classmates or treated differently. A student who doesn’t know where they’ll sleep that night is also trying to focus on a math test the next morning. Their life is one of survival, not one where they can nourish their mind and learn. When basic needs are uncertain, learning becomes much harder. 

Helping a homeless student succeed in school isn’t just about academics—it is about preserving opportunity, confidence, and hope for the future. 

How We Can Support Homeless Youth 

The good news? Small acts of support can make a meaningful difference. Consider donating new backpacks, school supplies, and hygiene items such as deodorant and toothpaste. Simple essentials prepare students for these changes and stages of life. 

Support for local organizations is also a major help. Consider donating items to Sharia’s Closet, which reaches out to San Diego residents and connects them to clothing and hygiene items. As the back-to-school season begins, many communities host school supply drives that help students start the year prepared. 

Here at Crisis House, our mission is to provide hope, stability, and compassionate support to individuals and families facing crisis. We believe no one should have to navigate homelessness, domestic violence, or housing insecurity alone. Whether you are experiencing homelessness, escaping domestic violence, or facing another difficult situation, our team is here to connect you with resources, guidance, and a path forward. Every person deserves to be treated with dignity, and every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive. 

When communities come together to support homeless youth, we remove barriers that stand between students and their right to a proper education. We give them a chance to attend school consistently and focus on their learning. Remember this back-to-school season that behind every desk is a young person with potential. No student should start the school year feeling forgotten. 

We’re Here to Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing crisis, Crisis House is here to help:

• Reach out to our team or call us at (619) 444-1194.
• Explore our full list of programs and services.
• Check out ways to get involved.
• Support students with resources.