Showing Up. Standing Up. Never Backing Down.
In the heart of one of the most innovative places on earth, thousands of kids face unimaginable challenges — sleeping on couches, park benches, or not knowing where their next meal will come from. These are the kids most people never notice. But we do.
At StandUp for Kids – Silicon Valley, we believe no young person should face homelessness alone. That’s why we’re out there on the streets and in their lives offering consistent mentorship, compassionate support, and the tools they need to build a brighter future.
Street Outreach
We walk the streets of San Jose and surrounding areas to find and support youth ages 12–24 who are unhoused or at extreme risk. We offer snack packs, hygiene kits, clothing, referrals and most importantly — a sense that someone truly cares. We meet them where they are. No judgment. Just help.
Mentoring & Life Skills
We provide one-on-one mentoring that helps youth build trust, set goals, and move from crisis toward stability. Whether it’s showing up for a job interview, celebrating a report card, or just being there when things feel overwhelming our mentors are a lifeline.
Food Access
For youth experiencing homelessness, food is more than just nourishment — it’s survival. When a young person hasn’t eaten all day, it’s almost impossible to focus in school, apply for jobs, or even think clearly. Hunger clouds every decision and chips away at hope.
That’s why we prioritize food access at every point of contact. We provide hot meals, snack packs, and take-home food bags during outreach and mentoring. Because before a youth can build a future, they need to know they’ll make it through the day.
Why It Matters
When kids don’t have stable housing, they’re more likely to:
– Drop out of school
– Be trafficked or exploited
– Suffer from untreated trauma and mental health issues
– Die from preventable illness, assault, or suicide
We’re not okay with that.
Letting these kids fall through the cracks? We won’t stand for it.
Our Impact
Because of supporters like you, StandUp for Kids chapters nationwide have delivered:
- 69,464 meals provided to youth
- 8,200 nights of emergency shelter secured
- 41,036 points of outreach service
- 31,471 Volunteer hours provided
Our local work in Silicon Valley is fueled by the same mission — to connect, nourish, and guide youth experiencing homelessness.
How You Can Help
Your support can change a life. Here’s how:
- Become a Mentor — Commit to walking alongside a youth as they work toward their goals.
- Join Outreach — Help us bring vital supplies — and hope — to the streets.
- Donate — Every dollar provides essentials like food, housing, and transportation.
- Host a Drive — Gather backpacks, coats, or hygiene items with your company, school, or church.
- Spread the Word — Awareness saves lives. Share our mission.
Real Change Starts with You.
These kids need more than a meal. They need a champion.
Be that person. Be the reason they keep going. Be the one who says: Not this kid. Not on my watch.