Family Homelessness and
Connecticut Libraries
Monday, May 24 | 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Presented by Vikki C. Terrile, MSLS, MA, this interactive virtual training will introduce participants to family homelessness in the United States, specifically family homelessness in Connecticut, and how libraries can support children and families in homeless situations. This training will share:
- Practical tips for connecting with local schools and community organizations to understand the nature of family homelessness in your community and to reach families where they are
- A range of services and programming options that you can offer
- How to address barriers to creating and sustaining these services
- How to leverage these activities to advocate for families and for libraries
Prior to the Great Recession, families with children had been the fastest growing population to experience housing instability and deprivation; the recession led to dramatic increases in family homelessness that had not abated fully in the years leading up to the COVID-19 crisis. Widespread economic instability and potential evictions resulting from the pandemic are expected to increase the numbers of children and families in homeless situations once again. Within this context, libraries can serve as a key support and community resource for children and parents whose housing is unstable.
