In this episode of Young People at the Front, hosts Tonny St. James, Fatima Tadou, and Robin Peterine welcome Emmett Liljegren, President of Trojan Shelter, a student-led organization at USC dedicated to providing housing for college students experiencing homelessness. Emmett shares his journey from volunteer to president, the challenges of running a student-run shelter, and the often-overlooked issue of student homelessness at prestigious universities.

The conversation explores the stigma surrounding housing insecurity on college campuses, the difficulties students face in accessing resources, and the ways Trojan Shelter is working to provide support. Emmett also discusses the importance of trauma-informed care, how USC students and faculty have responded to the shelter, and his personal experiences balancing academics, work at CHLA, and leading a nonprofit initiative.

This episode highlights the unseen struggles of students facing housing insecurity while pursuing higher education and the grassroots efforts being made to address the issue.

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• The founding and mission of Trojan Shelter at USC
• The hidden crisis of student homelessness on college campuses
• Funding struggles and the barriers to financial support
• The stigma surrounding housing insecurity among students
• Emmett’s personal journey balancing academics, work, and nonprofit leadership

Connect with Emmett and Trojan Shelter:

IG: @trojanshelter

https://www.trojanshelter.org/

Trojan Shelter’s Crowdfunding Campaign: 

https://pages.donately.com/studentmojo/campaign/trojan-shelter-holiday-fundraiser