Microblog #72: Explaining the hardest to the youngest

Homelessness Happens Everywhere. Even on Sesame Street.

As the holiday season draws to an end, many of us will reflect fondly on the time we’ve spent at home with our families and friends. These days will remind us how essential a safe and affordable shelter is to our health and well-being.

Unfortunately, over half a million of our fellow Americans are without a home right now. 2018 was the second year in a row this number slightly increased after seven straight years of improvement, following the recession and housing crisis.

Despite feeling more charitable this time of year, we often still struggle to explain how and why homelessness occurs in a society where there is plenty. Earlier this month, Sesame Street addressed this challenge head on by introducing its first resident without a home.

Lily, a 7-year-old Muppet, and her family are staying with friends after losing their home. By featuring Lily, and demonstrating how fellow characters support her, the show hopes to humanize homelessness and give children a strong foundation for addressing the problem in respectful, positive ways.

*** Photo Richard Termine / Sesame Workshop


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