Last night, I saw “The Homestretch.” The documentary follows three homeless Chicago youth in their fight to overcome obstacles. Roque, Kasey and Anthony’s stories are powerful, inspirational and heart-wrenching. I had multiple personal reactions within the tight 90 minute film.
I recently returned from Vegas, the city of excessive indulgence! Watching the movie, I initially felt guilty for my recent splurge. Despite a thirty year non-profit career in service to youth, I couldn’t help doing a “Hunger Games” comparison. I was the frivolous gal from The Capitol. And these youth were the scrappy Katniss, Peeta, and Gale from District 12. I was enjoying a big feast-filled life. And these three were fighting for their survival. From very young ages, they had to work hard without familial support.
I did nothing to achieve my great fortune of being born to parents that would love me unconditionally. I just lucked out! These kids didn’t. They had parents that threw them away. I can’t imagine what that would be like. When I was a teenager, my worry was about where we’d go after the football game. I didn’t have concern about where I would sleep or how I would get my next meal. I would worry about clothing but my focus was having a cool outfit not whether my clothes were clean or warm enough to sleep under a car.
These youth were not only resilient, they were positive and confident that they could change their lives. They weren’t mired in self-pity. They didn’t have a victim mentality. Even when they failed, they recharged and kept going… mostly alone. They were/are marveling.
One of the stories was particularly touching to me for the adult influence. Roque lives with his high school teacher and her family… for the last few years. She noticed something was wrong with him and took action. He showed up in her class with the same clothes. She observed he didn’t have anywhere to go at night. So, she invited him into her family’s life and she changed his fate. He is now a sophomore in college. Her decision to intervene is beautiful and impactful!
I work at the National Runaway Safeline. For over 40 years, we’ve been helping keep youth safe and off the streets. “The Homestretch” is having its Chicago premiere this week. In April, PBS will air it on television. Please see it! It’s important documentary to draw attention to the plight of runaway and homeless youth. We need to work together to #endyouthhomelessness.