A Street Called Hope: Homeless Kids in 3 Countries Finding a Future
100 million homeless kids live under bridges, in shelters, and abandoned buildings throughout the world. But there is hope! I'll show the lives of homeless kids in India, Russia, and the U.S, & the people and programs lifting them up.
Youth homelessness is a global issue.
In India, like in many countries, it is estimated that "thousands" of homeless children beg in the streets.
In St. Petersburg, Russia, statistics from 2004 estimate that over 20,000 children and youth spend their days and nights without a home. They struggle with sexual exploitation and the lure of drugs used to cope.
Likewise, in the U.S. where I have worked as a social worker and journalist, homeless teens and children struggle. They change schools repeatedly, moving from one shelter to another. They go without food, naps, and stability. They see a future lacking in hope.
But despite the grim circumstances, many of these kids will still smile at you. And though many programs organized to help them are under-funded, there are volunteers reaching out to lift them up.
If given the opportunity, I will travel to Russia, India and here in the U.S. to spend time with these kids and teens. I will share their stories with you in photos and words -- stories of struggle, courage and hope.
33 Comments
That sounds pretty intense you have my vote Please go and vote for me.
Mike
What a great idea! Homelessness will be an increasing issue here in the u.s. as we continue through this recession.
Go, jbiti! Really powerful idea.
What a great idea, and so important to bring attention to it.
I'd be interested in tagging along, locally of course.
Sounds like a great idea! Good luck!!
Thanks everyone! I think it's such an important issue! And I agree with kjshank - with the current economic issues around the world child/teen homelessness will likely be increasing.
You've got MY vote. I think this is a wonderful idea!
Yay jbiti! I hope you win. =)
Looks like a great idea!
Great idea!
Janelle,
Wonderful vision - shining light on these kids in there desperate places!
May your light generate HOPE!
Be Peace,
Al.
Janelle,
What a greast idea. You definiely have my vote. Good Luck with this. I think that we will see increasing numbers of homelessness and abuse. You always were a leader and motivated girl. God Bless.
You've got my vote Janelle!
This is something dear to my heart. I really hope you get a chance to make the street kids visible to the world.
kathleen duey
Guys, here's a link to an article on Yahoo today.
It states that "1 of every 50 U.S. kids are homeless each year." Studies vary. But check it out. - Janelle Bitikofer
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090310/ap_on_re_us/homeless_children_texas
And thanks to everyone who has voted for these kids so far!
- Janelle Bitikofer
I really like your idea! Children in all circumstances have always tugged on my heart. Good luck! If you get a chance, visit my idea and pic it if you like it :) http://www.nameyourdreamassignment.com/the-ideas/srebeccan/children-of-redemption/
HI, Janelle! I share your passion for homeless people; did Jesus not say He was homeless (here) as well? Anyway, go for it!
Blondine
you have got yourself a pretty sweet dream. you should check out my photographic adventure dream of the interesting land of France and the great bicycle race that takes place there. and "pic it" if you like. good luck
Interesting idea. You can do a lot with this. I would be very interested to see the results. I hope you succeed with this project. I wish you the best of luck with it. I voted for you. Please consider voting for my ideas as well.
Keep at it Janelle. I'm a home-dweller, and I voted (for you):-) Paul N.
Unite against the “network” that is scheming votes. Support ideas that are “lost” due to unworthy ideas using low tactics. “Insulin” is not the best idea. Something is wrong here and many fantastic ideas are getting lost due to the “network.” If you like my idea on “Vanishing Cultures,” vote for it.
Very cool. Please, check me out too when you've got the time.
best wishes with your project, I think it deserves to be in the top 20 :)
This would be a great project to bring attention to a very worthwhile cause. I like that you are using your experience and your talent to make a difference in the lives of children. (My project is about children in Africa). You have my vote. Good luck!!
I love this idea! check out mine and Pic it if youd like! Congo here I come...
Great idea... You've got my vote!! please check out my dream and vote for me.
Thanks for all the great notes, guys! - Janelle
A very powerful dream assignment! Thank you. Visit my dream assignment and pic/comment. Thanks. I pic'd yours. :)
This project could be so powerful! Best of luck, voted.
Check out my story on technology to save the developing world and my portfolio: http://maclellanimages.com/blog1/galleries/
Cool idea. Might be interesting to include China in the mix as well. Anyway, I'm voting for you. Feel free to return the favor and vote for my project to document political upheaval, land seizures and rights abuses in Zimbabwe.
voted for this one too.
I like your idea!
I voted for you; will you vote for me? Let's do this and see how it turns out. Let's help each other!
Good luck!