Blog series: Seeing what’s hidden — Part 2

By Tricia Wright

executive director

Creating safe spaces for young people

 At the 2025 Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless Conference, one panelist described youth homelessness simply: “Survival is a full-time job.” For many young people, this means constantly evaluating where they can safely sleep, who they can trust, and how to stay invisible enough to get through each day.

These are 18- to 24-year-olds — finishing high school or college, working at the Mall of America, or balancing multiple part-time jobs. They are in a unique stage of life, balancing independence and vulnerability. What they need most is space made for them — not institutions built for adults, but homes where safety and connection come first.

That’s why youth-specific programs like Onward’s transitional housing model are essential. Onward provides a safe, stable home designed for young adults who need time, trust, and guidance to move forward. We meet them where they are, with support that prioritizes safety, belonging, and growth.

Ending youth homelessness starts with recognizing that young people need more than a place to stay — they need spaces where they can thrive.

This reflection is part of Onward’s five-part series, “Seeing what’s hidden—youth homelessness in Minnesota,” drawing from insights shared at the 2025 Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless Conference. Continue reading to explore how communities across Minnesota can see what’s hidden — and help young people find safety, stability, and belonging.

Read more from the series:
Part 1: The invisible crisis | Part 3: Survival is a full-time job | Part 4: The power of belonging | Part 5: What you can do