From the Northern California Grantmakers, San Francisco
November 19, 2009

Despite significant media attention dedicated to the mortgage crisis and an expanded commitment to foreclosure prevention, little has been said about the effects of foreclosures on the well-being of children and youth. It is estimated that 8 million, or ten percent, of children in the U.S. could be affected by pending foreclosures.

As of May 2008, approximately 311,900 children had been affected in California alone since the start of the crisis.

Research on residential instability suggests potentially dire consequences for child development, educational achievement, and physical and mental health. Foreclosure compels families to move, usually to inferior housing or neighborhoods, and places parents under enormous financial and emotional stress.

High levels of housing mobility have been linked to poor test performance, a greater likelihood of delinquent and violent behavior, and lower likelihood of grade completion. Additionally, early residential instability—three or more moves between the ages of four and seven— makes children thirteen percent less likely to graduate from high school and puts them at higher risk for involvement with Child Protective Services.

Too often, organizations working with adults to prevent foreclosure are not connected to family support services. At the same time, educators and social service providers who see the impact on children and youth are not always aware of resources for economic and housing assistance.