One of every 50 American children experiences homelessness, according to a report that says most states have inadequate plans to address the worsening and often-overlooked problem.
The report, released this month by the National Center on Family Homelessness, analyzes data from 2005-06. It estimates that 1.5 million children experienced homelessness at least once that year. Louisiana had the most homeless children per capita in 2006, followed by Texas and California.
The report also offers 19 recommendations for government action, including increased federal spending on low-income housing, assistance to struggling renters and homeowners, and investment in child care for homeless children. It urges states to place homeless families directly into permanent housing rather than into motels.
The center issued the report to launch a campaign to end homelessness for all U.S. children within a decade.
