One definition of homelessness is not having a safe, permanent place to live, such as living on the streets or in shelters. In Erie County, Pennsylvania, more than 1,100 people use emergency shelters each year, and the number of homeless people has increased nearly 15% in the past five years. Young people are especially at risk, often facing challenges like leaving unstable homes and having no support system after leaving foster care. In this presentation, JES Raimy Fellow Damali Donovan will focus on defining homelessness according to federal statutes, the current state of homelessness, the issue of youth homelessness and its connection to Erie County.
Location: ECAT: Erie Center for Arts and Technology – 650 East Ave., Ada Lawrence Community Room, Erie, PA 16503
Date/Time: Thursday, February 20, 7-8:30PM
Admission: FREE
Damali Donovan, the Admissions Director at Villa Maria Cathedral Preparatory Catholic School System, is a dedicated advocate for social justice. She is deeply committed to addressing issues affecting vulnerable populations, particularly youth homelessness, and providing safer walking routes for students on their way to school. As a JES Raimy Fellow, Damali aims to share valuable insights about homelessness and its root causes. In her upcoming presentation, she will explore the complex issue of youth homelessness, examining its impact on Erie County and the nation.