Homeless Youth Awareness Action Month
As the holidays approach, let's remember those facing hunger and homelessness. This month, we join the National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness to raise awareness about these issues and inspire action. Children and youth with child welfare involvement may be at higher risk of experiencing homelessness in their lifetime. An estimated 1 in every 3 youth who age out of foster care experience homelessness by age 26. Two local CASA organizations in Colorado are working to provide essential support and resources to help former foster youth thrive.
CASA of the 7th Judicial District has three housing properties - 1st Place in Montrose, 1st Place in Delta, and The Village on San Juan. The Village on San Juan consists of 45 units that bring together critical communities that can enhance each other’s quality of life, including seniors and youth coming out of foster care. The hope is to leverage the contributions of the senior population for better outcomes with young adults. By providing stable housing, financial support, and guidance, they empower young adults to achieve independence and build fulfilling lives.
CASA of Jefferson and Gilpin Counties facilitates housing supports through their Youth Alliance at Avi program. Through partnerships with organizations like Foothills Regional Housing, the program offers rent-subsidized housing and one-on-one coaching to help youth develop essential life skills while in stable housing.
By providing these supports and empowering young adults, these organizations are making a significant impact on the lives of young adults in their communities!
Kristen Blessman, Colorado CASA Interim Director, and Megan Kilpatrick, COCASA Board Chair, visited CASA of the 7th Judicial District for their new housing project open house.
Pictured: Hilary Henry, Bennet’s Regional Representative; Megan Kilpatrick, COCASA Board Chair; Carlton Mason, CASA of the 7th Judicial District ED; Kristen Blessman, Colorado CASA Interim Director