Washtenaw launches $4.2M in new programs to help end youth homelessness
submitted by Hannah Lane, Washtenaw County Office of Community & Economic Development
The Washtenaw County Continuum of Care (CoC) is launching $4.2 million in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funding to help end youth homelessness through the Youth Homelessness Demonstration Project. This renewable funding will provide services and housing for youth and young adults under the age of 25.
Informed by the experiences of youth who experienced homelessness, Ozone House and Our House will open much needed housing programs for youth ages 18–24. “With dozens of young people on our waiting list, living without housing, I am looking forward to expanding our ability to meet their needs and get everyone the safety and care they deserve,” said Ozone House Associate Director Danielle Zochowski. Ozone House has served youth facing housing insecurity since 1969. New programming will allow Ozone House to address youth homelessness with both homelessness prevention and permanent housing resources.
Our House provides comprehensive support for foster youth transitioning to adulthood through mentorship, housing assistance, life skills training, wellness resources, and leadership opportunities. Their housing program will expand to serve pregnant and parenting young adults up to age 25, instead of age 19 as at present. Our House will also provide specialized care and resources for young mothers, including parenting coaching and skill building.
The Washtenaw Housing Alliance (WHA) will provide support by helping to attain housing vouchers and sourcing Rapid Rehousing beds and Permanent Housing. The Corner Health Center will provide wraparound services, including physical and mental health support.
Washtenaw County’s CoC lead agency, the Office of Community and Economic Development (OCED), and the CoC’s nonprofit partners are excited to offer expanded services for youth experiencing homelessness. Programs are expected to be available soon, and the CoC hopes that with this additional funding, youth homelessness will be rare, brief, and one time in our community.
Youth in need of resources can contact OCED’s Housing Access for Washtenaw County Call Center at 734-961-1999 or the Ozone House Crisis Line at 734-662-2222.
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