As overwhelming as all these challenges may sound, we believe that each of these young people has enormous potential. They have interesting stories to tell, beautiful pictures to paint; they have something meaningful to say, they have love and kindness to share. p:ear believes these kids have a future. And we believe this even though these amazing young people may have been told otherwise-either in word or in deed.

Though their physical needs are pressing, we believe that addressing their emotional health and well-being is an essential first step for combating destructive feelings of isolation and low self-esteem and is instrumental in changing harmful lifestyles, ultimately giving these young people the tools and confidence to transition off the streets.

We regard youth homelessness as a critical human rights issue that cannot be addressed solely through government programs and large social service agencies. We as a community desperately need to mobilize and support a variety of innovative approaches to deal with this complex problem. p:ear's programs present one such vehicle for change.