Nebraska Youth Homelessness Tops 1,600

More than 1,600 Nebraskans ages 13-24 are unsheltered or at risk of becoming homeless, according to a statewide initiative.

Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Youth

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The Youth Homelessness System Improvement Project held its annual conference on Thursday to address the growing number of young people in Nebraska facing homelessness. The project has worked since 2024 to better support youth who often fall through the cracks of existing services.

Why it matters

Homelessness among young people is often hidden because many try to avoid being identified, which can leave them without access to help. Coordinated support across service providers aims to reach youth before their situations become more severe.

More than 1,600 Nebraskans ages 13-24 are unsheltered or at risk of becoming homeless. The Youth Homelessness System Improvement Project is funded by a HUD grant and has worked on the issue since 2024.

The players

Youth Homelessness System Improvement Project

A statewide initiative funded by a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grant that works to better coordinate support for young people facing homelessness in Nebraska.

Lucas Ramirez

A young Nebraskan who became homeless after exiting the foster care system, whose experience reflects the gaps young people often face.

The details

The annual conference brought together service providers and youth leaders to discuss ways to build a more coordinated system. Lucas Ramirez, who became homeless after exiting foster care, is among the young people whose experiences illustrate the gaps in support.

2024: The Youth Homelessness System Improvement Project began its work.
Thursday (week of November 5, 2026): The project held its annual conference.

Youth Pathways

The project operates under a HUD grant that directs service providers likely to interact with youth to build a more coordinated system. Its work targets the gap between foster care exit and independent living that leaves some young people unsheltered.

Local shelters consistently need donated supplies to serve young people. Residents who want to help can contact area shelters directly to learn what items are currently needed.

The takeaway

Young people who exit foster care or lose housing are often hidden from view, so coordinated outreach across providers is a practical way to reach them earlier. Nebraskans can support local efforts by donating supplies to shelters that serve youth.