BUFFALO (WBEN) - Through a coordinated strategy, local organizations have received more than $2.3 million in federal funding to help reduce the rate of youth homelessness in Erie County.
"Erie and Niagara Counties are only one of 22 urban communities to receive the highly competitive Youth Homeless Demonstration Program grant from HUD in the amount of $3.6 million over two years," said Dale Zuchlewski, executive director of the Homeless Alliance of WNY. "These funds will serve the hidden homeless - those young and young adults that may not seek services through traditional resources."
Compass House - Joint Transitional Rapid-Rehousing ($1,175,818)
This project will provide housing support through a transitional housing site for males, a partnership to provide transitional housing for females with TRY and a rapid rehousing program to help youth obtain their own apartment in the community.
BestSelf - Overnight Drop-in Center ($593,570)
The Drop-in Center will provide a safe place overnight for youth to obtain food, clothing and other necessities as well as get linked to support and housing services. The project will serve youth ages 16-24 in Erie County and will also include expanded hours for Compass House's Resource Center.
BestSelf - Family Engagement Team ($602,532)
This project will focus on providing family mediation and other support services to help youth quickly resolve their homelessness or divert them from experiencing homelessness. The project will serve youth ages 12-24 in Erie County.
