France faces rising child homelessness, with over 2,300 children without shelter

France is facing a critical surge in child homelessness, with over 2,300 children lacking shelter, a stark increase that moves further away from the government's "zero child on the street" objective. A barometer released Wednesday by Unicef France and the Federation of Solidarity Actors (FAS) revealed that at least 2,355 children, including 514 under the age of three, were left without accommodation after contacting 115, the national emergency number for the homeless.

"It is urgent that public decision-makers act. A political jolt is vital for these children. If guaranteeing a roof for all children is not our priority, what is?" stated Adeline Hazan, president of Unicef France. The number of homeless children has risen by 9% compared to 2025 and by 42% since 2022, the year the government reiterated its goal of ending child homelessness. These figures are not exhaustive, as many families struggle to reach the 115 helpline or give up trying, and unaccompanied minors and those in squats or shantytowns are not counted.

The consequences of homelessness on children are severe, leading to deteriorating physical and mental health, social isolation, exposure to violence, and educational difficulties. Tragically, Unicef France and FAS reported that 14 children under four and 12 adolescents aged 15 to 18 died on the streets in 2025. This highlights the life-threatening conditions faced by these vulnerable young individuals.

In response, Unicef France and FAS are advocating for a substantial plan to increase social housing production. They point to a July 2025 report by three general inspectorates that identified chronic underfunding and poor management within France's emergency accommodation program, hindering its ability to meet demand. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, these associations are demanding that combating child homelessness become an absolute priority in housing and accommodation policies.

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It is urgent that public decision-makers act. A political jolt is vital for these children. If guaranteeing a roof for all children is not our priority, what is?