Homelessness in Lenawee County - Beth McCullough

Patty introduced Beth McCullough who spoke about the homeless teen situation in Lenawee County. Beth said that the program has really come together over the past several years. A total of 78% of the homeless she works with are graduating from high school versus 50% nationally.

Even better, 100% of the ones in in her "Road Map to Graduation" program are graduating.  She was also encouraged by the fact that the number of homeless teens remained level last year.  More good news is that Western Michigan University is offering 20 full-rise scholarships to homeless high school Seniors.

Unfortunately, she shared that help for the homeless Mother's with children is seriously limited.  There are only two suitable units in Lenawee County.  The Catherine Cobb shelter only takes domestic abuse victims and the other shelters are not appropriate for women or especially children.  Money is needed for their temporary housing.

Side Note: Beth McCullough was named by the White House as a Champion of Change for her work in the fight against youth homelessness in July of 2012. McCullough is the homeless education liaison for Adrian Public Schools and homeless education coordinator for Lenawee County. McCullough was honored in Washington, D.C. as one of 13 individuals who have made a significant difference in the way their communities combat homelessness among children and youth, according to a White House news release.