SAN DIEGO (KGTV) – Every step of a leisurely stroll by the water at Spanish Landing Park is deeper than stepping for Justin Lipford and David Baker of the San Diego County YMCA.

“We as an organization work with youth over 55 who are experiencing homelessness and housing instability,” said Lipford, director of community engagement.

David and Justin are on them the fourth annual solidarity trip. Together they walk step by step from Tijuana to Oceanside to raise awareness and inspire impact on reducing youth homelessness.

“One thing we always say is that youth homelessness looks a lot different than the homelessness that is visible in our communities. So this is a chance for us to raise the issue,” said Baker, director of youth systems for the YMCA’s Department of Youth and Family Services. “It’s one of the most difficult things to navigate.”

Walks are about trying to end a cycle Baker lived directly.

“It’s really difficult to admit that you’re going through something like this, so our mission is to end the suffering,” Baker said.

Krysta Esquveil is the Vice President of Social Services at the San Diego County YMCA.

She tells me that these walks are about trying to bring attention to where the homelessness crisis begins for many people.

“We know that about 50 percent of chronically homeless adults had their first experience with homelessness as youth,” Esquivel said.

The Regional Homelessness Task Force’s latest snapshot of the crisis shows that nearly 1,800 young people were living on the streets and in shelters.

Esquivel tells ABC 10News that listening to those with lived experience about what’s needed and moving quickly to provide resources to homeless youth is making an impact.

“In particular, providing safe, stable and dignified housing and doing so in a flexible way. Some young people want to be with other young people in a bridging housing situation. Some young people would prefer transitional housing. Some young people can stay right where they are – they just need a little financial support to avoid eviction,” Esquivel said.

Step by step, mile by mile, these two men hope that something as simple as a walk can make a big difference in ending youth homelessness.

“… Be a beacon of hope to those who may be suffering from homelessness and say, ‘Hey, I can connect with these people. I can go with those guys,” Baker said.

“It’s just great to see people come together when there’s something behind it. And catching up