About the Event

SLCY’s mission is to support the stability of young people in the Southern US by advancing their legal rights. SLCY is the only civil legal aid organization in GA focusing on youth and young adults aged 12-24 at risk of or experiencing homelessness on their own. HTS is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness in Metro Atlanta. 

Current data shows that almost 3,000 young people experience homelessness in GA each year without their parent(s) or guardian(s). These young people often experience violations of their rights and other legal challenges. For example, think about a sixteen year-old forced to leave home because of family conflict or coming out as LGBTQ+. They may face difficulties obtaining their belongings and vital documents, registering for school, signing a lease, and accessing income. Family law or other legal issues may also disrupt their lives, impeding stable housing. While youth are unstably housed, they are at high risk of violence and trafficking - 54% of young people experiencing homelessness in Atlanta reported also experiencing human trafficking. 

Young people often experience confusion, anxiety, and overwhelm around knowing their rights and interacting with the legal system. This makes lawyers uniquely positioned to act as advocates, problem solvers, and systems navigators. Lawyers can assist youth to access services to help them out of homelessness, including removing legal barriers to stable housing, education, employment, healthcare, and stability. Lawyers can represent youth in the courtroom, but also can support as part of an interdisciplinary team assisting with preventative wrap-around supports.