During economic downturn, schools see increase in homeless children

Educators across the nation are struggling to help children who have fallen victim to what is becoming a growing problem - homelessness.

In addition to the already established free lunches, many schools have been providing taxi services, tutoring, clothing, and even access to showers to the children who are suffering as a result of the country's mortgage crisis.

Senator Robert Menendez (D) of New Jersey explained:

One of the devastating realities and the collateral damage of the foreclosure crisis that hasn't gotten enough attention is that it affects our nation's children.  They get lost in the bigger picture."

According to The Washington Post, 330 school systems across the U.S. served as many homeless children in the late fall of this year as they did during the entire 2007-2008 school year. 

The situation is being seen across all economic brackets. The Post reports that schools in Fairfax County, one of the country's most "affluent areas",  have seen a 20% increase in children who are identified as homeless in this year alone. 

In New York City, the Coalition for the Homeless reports that as of this November, the number of homeless families living in shelters has reached the highest level in the history of modern homelessness.

Experts worry that the trauma caused by homelessness can have effects that are long lasting to children.  Schools are also trying to connect children with social services and professionals to help them cope with the difficulties they are facing.

If you would like to do something to help the growing number of homeless families in New York, visit The Coalition for the Homeless.