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AGENCY TESTIMONY
Youth support services, including drop-in centers and housing programs
0:32:35
ยท
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The testimony highlights various support services and programs specifically designed for LGBTQ+ youth, particularly those experiencing homelessness or housing instability. These initiatives focus on creating safe, affirming spaces and providing essential resources.
- DYCD's youth drop-in centers serve as safe havens for young people aged 14 to 24, offering food, clothing, showers, and case management services.
- The youth drop-in center expansion, supported by the Unity Project, aims to provide 24/7 support in all boroughs.
- DYCD's Transitional Independent Living (TIL) youth housing program provides long-term shelter and support for youth experiencing homelessness.
- Crisis service programs offer emergency shelter and intervention for youth aged 16 to 24, working towards family reunification when possible.
Ronald Porcelli
0:32:35
Building strong support systems is essential for the well-being of TGNCMB youth, especially those navigating housing instability or food insecurity.
0:32:45
Our initiatives focus on creating safe affirming spaces where young people can access resources, connect with community and receive support.
0:32:52
LGBTQ plus youth comprise approximately forty percent of youth experiencing homelessness.
0:32:58
DYCD's youth drop in centers open to young people aged 14 to 24 serve as safe havens where youth can access food, clothing, showers, laundry facilities, and case management services.
0:33:08
These centers also provide referrals to crisis service programming and additional support services ensuring that youth experiencing homelessness or instability can find the resources they need.
0:33:17
DYC's youth drop in center expansion supported by the Unity Project is a transformative progression aimed at providing around the clock support for LGBTQ plus youth in need.
0:33:27
With the expansion to five centers with 20 fourseven service in all boroughs, this initiative ensures that young people have access to safe spaces, essential resources, and supportive community services at any hour.
0:33:40
DYCD's transitional independent living youth housing program, Till, provides long term shelter and essential support for youth experiencing homelessness aged 16 to 21, with extended services available for young adults aged 21 to 24 at designated homeless young adult sites.
0:33:57
DYCD's food assistance program ensures that food pantries are available in every borough providing nutritional support to individuals and families facing food insecurity.
0:34:06
Lastly, DYCD's crisis service programs offer emergency shelter and crisis intervention for youth aged 16 to 24 and 21 to 24 at homeless young adult sites.
0:34:16
These voluntary short term residential programs provide a safe space for young people experiencing homelessness while working towards family reunification when possible.
0:34:25
If returning home is not an option, the program helps youth access its transitional and long term placements.