Youth homelessness rising in Tulsa, hundreds on housing waitlist

While efforts to address homelessness in Tulsa continue, one group often goes unnoticed: young people.

Youth Services of Tulsa (YST) is raising the alarm about youth homelessness, which experts say looks very different than traditional perceptions of homelessness, and is growing more urgent.

What youth homelessness really looks like

Caroline Olsen with Youth Services of Tulsa says youth homelessness doesn’t always involve tents or sleeping on sidewalks.

Many young people facing housing insecurity are instead couch surfing, sleeping in cars, or moving between temporary shelters.

Over 350 young people waiting for housing help

Currently, more than 350 people are on YST’s housing waitlist. The organization believes the true number of youth experiencing homelessness in Tulsa is much higher, given how many go uncounted.

Olsen emphasized that these young adults — often ages 17 to 25 — lack the safety net many take for granted.

“When you think about youth homelessness, a lot of our young people don’t have those supports,” she said. “One thing we try to do is provide that to them with employment education specialists, case managers.”

Why awareness matters

Olsen says public perception can be a barrier to progress. The group hopes to shift the conversation away from stigma and toward support.

“A lot of it is just about opening conversations that are actually productive,” Olsen said. “Instead of grumbling about someone outside your business or in the park, ask: what does their experience actually look like?”

Local response and upcoming event

Youth Services of Tulsa is partnering with Tulsa’s Young Professionals to host an event focused on youth homelessness. Organizers say it’s a step toward connecting young people to the resources they need — and giving the broader community tools to help.

That event takes place on Tuesday, April 29, and starts at 5:30 p.m. at Youth Services of Tulsa. Registration is free but required.