CLEVELAND — A new initiative to prevent and end young adult homelessness was launched by the Cuyahoga County Office of Homeless Services Monday. The "REACHing for New Heights" plan is funded through a $3.9 million federal grant.
In October 2022, The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development selected Cuyahoga County to participate in the Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program.
Monday, the Cuyahoga County Office of Homeless Services (OHS), the REACH Youth Action Board, A Place 4 Me Collaborative, and other community partners announced what the $3.9 mill7ion will go towards.
“This innovative strategy was designed to uplift the leadership and voice of young people who have experienced homelessness in their communities and to develop relevant solutions,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. “I am inspired by their collaborative dedication to action and to improving the outlook for the future.”
REACHing for New Heights identifies two interventions to be funded with the federal resources.
First is the Transitional Housing-Rapid Rehousing program, which will expand safe, stable housing options for young people ages 18 to 24. It will provide 62 units for up to 36 months.
Secondly is the Navigation Program which will provide outreach, connection, and support to young people as they access resources and regain stability. Six navigators will be supported through this program.
Kai Saga of partnering organization A Place 4 Me told 3 News that while they care for homeless people of all ages, young adults do require special care.
“Right now, young people aren't looked at as a specific population," she said. "They're kind of integrated with the rest of the homeless population. What we fail to realize is that the 18 through 24 age range is a very special and vulnerable time where young adults are still developing. Their brains are still developing. So, every experience that they go through has a long-term impact on who they'll be later on down the line. So, these services that will reach them when they're in a super vulnerable state or in a crisis, they'll feel more comfortable accessing them because they'll know that it's for them. So that sense of belonging will go a long way."
The Cuyahoga County Office of Homeless Services says over 500 young adults engage in their services each year.
“Thanks to a $3.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, these new initiatives were crafted by youth and young adults with lived experiences of housing instability, along with professionals within the foster care, homeless services, educational and employment fields,” according to a press release.