Living Wages

A living wage is defined as “a wage sufficient to provide the necessities essential to an acceptable standard of living, and provides it with some ability to deal with emergencies, without resorting to welfare or other public assistance.” Unfortunately, in most states the “Minimum” wage is far lower than a living wage. This disparity is one of the leading causes of homelessness among young adults in America today. Despite having a job, many do not make enough money to pay the bills. And without savings or family support, these kids often end up on the streets.

Living Wages

A Low Living Wage Affects Homeless Kids

Kids who have run away from an abusive home life often live on the streets because they can't afford to pay rent. Most have been thrown out of their family's house or have become orphaned, and they can't find a job that will pay them a living wage that will make ends meet.

Since homeless kids are usually either school dropouts or still completing their education, they don't have the skills and experience necessary to find jobs in which they can earn more than the minimum wage. The amount of money a homeless kid can earn is usually just a fraction of the fair-market cost of rent.

Covenant House strives to advocate for a better living wage and low-income housing laws so that homeless kids can break free from the vicious wage-versus-rent cycle in which they often find themselves.

We also work diligently with each and every young person who turns to us to develop their education and work skills – and better their income potential.