Senator Mark Leno (D-San Francisco) has introduced legislation which would make it easier for homeless young people to get their GEDs.
At a March 13th press conference at Larkin Street Youth Services, Leno explained the basic principle of SB 252. The bill would prohibit the Department of Education or testing companies from charging an exam fee to young people who are homeless and wish to take the GED (High School Equivalency) or proficiency test. Assembly members David Chiu and Phil Ting, who co-authored the bill, attended the press conference with Leno.
"Exam fees, which cost up to $200, can create an impossible obstacle for homeless youth who wish to further their education and enhance their job prospects," Leno said in a press release. "This gives disadvantaged young people a better chance to earn higher wages so they can lead productive lives as adults."
23-year-old Robert Melton, a client of Larkin Street Youth Services, spoke to attendees at the press conference as to why this bill means so much to him.
"I left school at 16," he said. "I needed more support than I was getting—I felt overwhelmed by the number of kids in my class."
Melton said that he'd always been interested in cars, and wanted to apply for the Automotive Program at City College. "I can't apply without my GED," he said.
Larkin Street Youth Services, located in the Tenderloin, has a 30 year history of standing up for homeless youth in the city. Hoodline chatted with Larkin Street Executive Director Sherilyn Adams about the organization.
Can you tell us a bit about the history of Larkin Street Youth Services?
"With over 3,000 youth served each year, Larkin Street's goal is to provide a full spectrum of support to youth that will enable them to move on to independence. The organization has a long history of continuing to raise the bar so that youth ages 12-24 have full access to opportunities which can put them on a path to a positive future. The organization is in the midst of a five year strategic plan which incorporates goals for every client to achieve: living wage employment, two years of post-secondary education, safe and stable housing, as well as physical and emotional well-being."
What is the annual budget and how are funds raised?
"Larkin Street has a budget of approximately $16 million annually. Funds are raised through individual donors, grants from foundations, corporations, local, state and federal government, as well as through special events."
Can you say something about Senator Leno's proposed GED legislation?
"Any way to reduce significant barriers for homeless young people to allow to allow access to education is critical for these youth to gain self-sufficiency."
What is your average success rate?
"Three out of four youths who complete Larkin Street's comprehensive programs exit street life."
Do former clients ever return as volunteers?
"We do occasionally have former clients return as volunteers, as well as individuals who were homeless youth that were not our clients who decide to volunteer in support of the work we do."
To get involved at Larkin Street Youth Services, you can find information on short-term, long-term, and group volunteer opportunities here. The organization also has a donation page for those looking to contribute financially.
