The problem is that in Miami-Dade County, we have a shocking number of homeless kids (under 18) and youth (18-25). The total number of homeless kids and youth in the county is currently not ascertainable. However, we do know that we have over 6,500 kids that are currently homeless while in school. There is no way to count the ones that are not in school anymore. There are many other categories that go uncounted.

Where are they, you ask? You have seen a homeless youth or kid before. You just didn’t know it. They blend in the best they can. They are not the picture of homelessness that comes to your mind when you read the word “homeless”.

It is impossible to express how painful it has been for me to see these youth suffer. On the other hand, it has also been immensely rewarding to get to know so many remarkable young people.  These people are talented, generous, loving, grateful and inspiring. What really amazes me is that they continue to shine their lights despite the incredible struggles they encounter every day just to avoid harm and sustain themselves.

There are no county-funded services for these young people that need just a helping hand into the world of adulthood. There are no viable housing solutions for a high school kid that is homeless, a kid aging out of the “system”, or for a kid who gets kicked out for coming out. Not one.

This is why Project Nest is creating our first home.  It is a small step, but we are sure that it will be catalyst for our community. Spring 2012 will blossom four boys into a caring, supportive home where they will respectively graduate high school, prepare for college, learn to speak English, obtain a Green Card and much, much more.

I ask for your help in spreading awareness about this current state of affairs.  I ask for your support in empowering the future of our community one beautiful soul at a time.

Thank you for joining me on this journey.

Yours,
Liz Fate