ABSTRACT

Youth experiencing homelessness are part of the large, diverse student population served by community colleges in the United States. These students, who are often unsupported in college environments, turn to housing agencies to provide critical resources. This qualitative study included interviews with 20 students, ages 18–24, attending community college while homeless. Students in this study accessed critical services and social supports in homeless service agencies; however, the requirements of some agency policies were a barrier to reaching academic goals. Housing agencies provided participants with necessary resources; however, participants described facing unique obstacles as they navigated agency eligibility requirements while attending college.