For many students, school is a place of consistency—a warm meal, a caring adult, a safe space to learn and grow. But for hundreds of children in the Twin Falls School District (TFSD) who are experiencing homelessness, even that sense of stability can be fragile.
This December, TFSD is once again participating in the Avenues for Hope Housing Challenge, a statewide online fundraising campaign running from December 10 to December 31. The effort brings together nonprofits, schools, and caring community members to address homelessness and housing insecurity across Idaho.
So far this school year, TFSD has identified over 300 children as experiencing homelessness. That number represents students and their younger siblings who are living without fixed, adequate, or regular housing—conditions that can make it difficult to focus on learning or to feel connected at school.
“Our students are resilient, but they can’t do it alone,” said Jenny Herzog, At-Risk Coordinator for TFSD. “When the community steps in to help, it’s not just about meeting a need—it’s about showing our kids that people care about them and believe in their future.”
Funds raised through Avenues for Hope will help meet the most urgent needs of TFSD students facing housing insecurity, from food and hygiene supplies to clothing and access to extracurricular activities that help them feel included and confident.
Every contribution makes a difference:
$150 can provide food for an unaccompanied homeless youth for a month.
$75 can provide athletic shoes or other gear so students can take part in school activities.
$25 can supply hygiene products for families making difficult choices about basic needs.
The Avenues for Hope campaign is powered by matching and bonus funds from statewide sponsors, meaning every local donation to TFSD can go even further to support students.
“This campaign is about more than dollars,” Herzog added. “It’s about neighbors helping neighbors, and a community saying to our kids: You matter, and we’re here for you.”
Community members can help by donating, sharing information about the campaign on social media, or simply talking with others about the importance of supporting students and families in need.
To learn more or make a donation, visit www.avenuesforhope.org/organizations/twin-falls-school-district. Follow the Twin Falls School District on Facebook and Instagram for updates throughout the campaign and stories of local impact.