Every young person deserves safety, stability, and the chance to shape their own future. Yet tonight in Central Texas, more than a thousand youth—many who spent time in foster care or who are supporting a child of their own—don’t have a safe place to sleep. Some will stay in cars, on a friend’s floor, or outside. Others will keep moving from one temporary arrangement to the next, while trying to stay in school, hold a job, or care for their mental health.

LifeWorks is here to change that.

We believe that it’s possible to solve youth homelessness, and we’re proving it every day. Our model combines immediate help with long-term solutions, grounded in data and built in partnership with youth themselves. From housing and mental health care to education and job support, LifeWorks offers a team that listens, adapts, and walks alongside each young person as they pursue goals that matter to them.

For many, that journey starts at our Youth Resource Center in East Austin. It’s a no-judgment, no-appointment space to grab a meal, take a shower, talk to someone who cares, and start exploring next steps. What happens next looks different for everyone. For some, trust builds slowly. Others are ready to act on day one. Whatever the pace, we’re here with practical tools, essential resources, and unwavering support.

Our work is shaped by data and by listening closely to what young people say they need most.

Today, our methods stand as a national model for how communities can solve youth homelessness with compassion and evidence.

LifeWorks serves more than 2,500 youth and young families each year across more than a dozen programs. These services are designed for young people ages 16 to 26, including young parents, youth transitioning from foster care, and those experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or significant mental health needs.

When young people have real support, real change happens.

And at LifeWorks, that change takes place every day.