What is the current rate of homelessness for infants and toddlers in the US?

As of 2023, nearly 450,000 infants and toddlers in the United States were in families experiencing homelessness, representing a 23% increase since 2021.

How does homelessness impact a child's development according to experts?

Homelessness can cause young children to lag in language and literacy skills and struggle with self-regulation, potentially leading to long-term challenges.

What organizations are helping homeless children in Boston?

Organizations like Horizons for Homeless Children operate the Edgerley Family Horizons Center, an early learning program for young children experiencing homelessness in the Boston area.

Home / Education / Babies Homeless: US Toddler Crisis Soars 23%

Babies Homeless: US Toddler Crisis Soars 23%

18 Jan

•

Summary

Nearly 450,000 US infants/toddlers experienced homelessness in 2023.
Homelessness among young children increased by 23% from 2021 to 2023.
Early childhood programs offer crucial support but are underutilized.

Babies Homeless: US Toddler Crisis Soars 23%

A growing crisis of homelessness is impacting infants and toddlers across the United States, with a 23% increase in affected children between 2021 and 2023. Nearly 450,000 young children lived in families without stable housing as of 2023, a figure experts fear may be underestimated due to "hidden homelessness."

Factors such as soaring costs for essentials like diapers and formula, exorbitant childcare expenses, and rising maternal mental health issues are driving this trend. Housing instability profoundly affects young children's development, often leading to delays in language, literacy, and self-regulation skills, with potential long-term health and learning consequences.

While early childhood programs like Horizons' Edgerley Center in Boston offer vital support, they struggle to meet demand, serving only a fraction of those in need. Experts advocate for policy changes including increased minimum wages, expanded childcare options, and affordable housing to prevent babies from experiencing homelessness.