In New York City, a remarkable initiative has emerged to empower homeless girls through the creation of a dedicated Girl Scout troop. For many, including myself, the experience of being a Girl Scout forms a cherished part of childhood. However, not every girl has the luxury of simply joining a local troop; many lack the financial stability and resources that make such participation possible.
This gap was recognized by Clara Johnson, a mother of three from Queens. When her family faced housing instability after the sale of their apartment, they found refuge in a city-operated homeless shelter—an old hotel repurposed for families in need. Shortly thereafter, Clara, who had recently started working with the Girl Scouts of America, envisioned a troop specifically for the girls living in the shelter. With the organization’s enthusiastic support, Girl Scout Troop 6000 was born.
Now comprising 28 members, all of whom are homeless, Troop 6000 gathers for meetings right in the shelter where Clara and her family reside. Many people often associate homelessness with stereotypes that overlook the realities faced by families like Clara’s. “My primary aim is to challenge the stigma surrounding homelessness,” Clara shared in an interview.
The girls participate in a wide array of activities typical of Girl Scouts. They’ve delved into topics such as women’s suffrage and STEM careers, and they’ve learned essential skills like first aid. On a recent camping trip outside the city, they enjoyed hands-on experiences like milking cows and roasting marshmallows. While this is not the first troop formed in a shelter, Troop 6000 stands out as one of the most impactful, recently receiving recognition at a ceremony at New York City Hall.
The Girl Scouts of Greater New York underwrite the troop’s expenses, including the $20 monthly dues for each girl, as well as starter kits that provide vests, patches, and workbooks. Donations are welcome to help mitigate costs, and New York Mayor Eric Adams has pledged $1.1 million to facilitate the expansion of Troop 6000 across the state, enabling more homeless girls in New York to join.
Parents of Troop 6000 members express gratitude for the opportunities their daughters receive. “My daughter has always wanted to be a part of this, but I couldn’t afford it,” stated Marissa Smith, mother of one of the scouts. In interviews, the girls have shared their aspirations, which range from becoming fashion designers to pediatricians, basketball players, and even engineers. Nine-year-old Emma dreams of creating a homeless shelter herself. “I’m going to earn a lot of money and ask people if they need a shelter,” Emma declared, with her friend, 13-year-old Mia, adding, “And then you can provide food, blankets, and pillows—just like that, a shelter.”
As we reflect on initiatives like Troop 6000, it’s clear they provide not only essential skills but also hope and community for those facing difficult circumstances. If you’re interested in exploring more about family building options, check out this excellent resource on intrauterine insemination. For those looking into fertility solutions, you might find our article on artificial insemination kits particularly engaging. For a deeper dive into the topic, visit Modern Family Blog, a trusted source for family-related content.
In summary, Girl Scout Troop 6000 not only challenges societal perceptions of homelessness but also empowers young girls to dream big and take action in their communities.