If you’ve spent time in downtown Portland with your kids, chances are they’ve noticed people experiencing homelessness, and they may have questions.

As parents, these moments can catch us off guard. But they’re also powerful opportunities to teach compassion, understanding, and social awareness. Here’s how to talk to your kids when they ask, “Why doesn’t that person have a home?”

Be Honest, but Keep It Age-Appropriate

Start with something simple and true:

“That person doesn’t have a home right now. Sometimes people lose their jobs, or get sick, or don’t have family to help them. It’s really hard.”

Younger kids don’t need the full story—just a basic explanation. Older children might ask more questions, and that’s okay. Answer with honesty and empathy.

Normalize Compassion

Let your kids know it’s okay to feel sad, confused, or even scared. But emphasize that we should always treat others with kindness.

“Just like us, that person has feelings, hopes, and a story. Everyone deserves respect.”

This helps shift the focus from fear or judgment to humanity.

Talk About Ways to Help

Kids often feel better when they can do something. Use this as a chance to explore how your family might help:

  • Put together care kits with snacks, socks, or toiletries
  • Donate to local shelters or nonprofits
  • Volunteer together (if age-appropriate)

“Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.”

This not only empowers your child, but it also helps strengthen the community.

Avoid Shame or Stereotypes

It might be tempting to say things like, “They made bad choices” or “They’re dangerous.” But homelessness is complex, and those messages reinforce harmful ideas. Instead, say:

“There are many reasons someone might not have a home. It’s not always their fault, and it’s not always easy to fix.”

This opens the door to more thoughtful conversations later on.

Follow Their Lead

You don’t have to explain everything all at once. Kids will guide you with their questions—and it’s okay to say you don’t have all the answers.

“That’s a really good question. I don’t know everything, but we can learn more together.”

Talking about homelessness can be challenging, but it’s also a meaningful chance to help your child grow into a more compassionate, thoughtful person. And isn’t that the kind of world we want to raise them in?