Efforts include shaping policies and programs, data collection and community engagement
欧宝平台 joins forces with the to advance youth housing stability initiatives through the Youth Homelessness Systems Improvement (YHSI) grant, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The collaborative effort will focus on improving resources and services for youth experiencing homelessness in Berks, Lancaster and York counties.
"Alvernia is deeply committed to serving the communities we reside in as a part of our mission and enduring Franciscan values," said 欧宝平台 President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. "Through the newly launched SOLAR initiative, Reading CollegeTowne initiative and comprehensive Partners in Progress campaign, we are responding to the ever-evolving needs of our students and our communities. This includes, but is not limited to, bridging gaps in access to opportunities in higher education and beyond for those experiencing housing insecurity.鈥
Under this agreement, BCEH, as the lead grant recipient, has designated 欧宝平台 as a sub-recipient responsible for the YHSI initiatives. The university will provide expertise in research, community engagement, and data analysis while ensuring youth participation in system improvements.
鈥淭he Youth Homelessness Systems Improvement (YHSI) grant is a critical investment for Berks County. Our current youth homelessness response system is extremely limited, and we know there are many young people in need who aren't being served,鈥 said Elise McCauley, assistant director of BCEH. "This grant will allow us to finally understand the true scope of the problem by gathering much needed data. With that information, we can develop action steps to bridge the gaps and create a truly effective response system for our most vulnerable youth.鈥
The YHSI grant, spans a 30-month period from Nov. 1, 2024, to April 30, 2027. It is part of HUD鈥檚 broader efforts to enhance youth homelessness response systems nationwide.
"Homelessness is a systemic issue that presents countless barriers to growth, development and achievement for young people in Berks County, including some of our students," said Alvernia Vice President of Mission, Diversity and Inclusion Darryl Mace, Ph.D. "Our culture of care calls us to support those in need, both at Alvernia and in our greater communities. By embedding inclusion and belonging into our work, we are helping to dismantle barriers and create more just and effective support systems for young people in Berks, Lancaster and York Counties."
Alvernia will also support the initiative by hiring dedicated staff, facilitating training sessions, and submitting regular progress reports to HUD and BCEH focusing on several key areas:
- Data Collection & Insights: Analyzing system-wide data to improve youth homelessness interventions across Berks County.
- Inclusion & Belonging: Ensuring access and inclusion considerations are embedded in all YHSI-related initiatives.
- Community Engagement: Involving youth with lived experience through the Youth Action Board (YAB) to shape policies and programs.
- Interagency Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships with local service providers and government agencies to streamline support systems.
