On February 24th, the Runaway and Homeless Youth Program will host a gathering aimed at recruiting more host families to support at-risk youth. This event, taking place at the Catholic Charities Training Center in Herkimer, promises to provide valuable insights into the program and the impact of hosting youth in need.
Key Takeaways
- Event Date and Time: February 24th, from 4 to 6 p.m.
- Location: Catholic Charities Training Center, 320 North Prospect Street, Herkimer.
- Purpose: To recruit additional host families and explain the benefits of participation.
- Target Audience: Individuals and families interested in supporting runaway and homeless youth.
Understanding The Program
The Runaway and Homeless Youth Program (RHY) serves youth up to age 21 who are facing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless. The program offers a variety of services designed to assist these young individuals, including:
- Crisis Hotline: A 24-hour hotline for immediate support.
- Emergency Housing: Safe accommodations for youth in crisis.
- Counseling Services: Both crisis and ongoing counseling for youth and their families.
- Transportation: Assistance with getting to necessary appointments or services.
- Independent Living Skills: Training to help youth transition to independent living.
- Academic Support: Tutoring and mentoring to help youth succeed in school.
- Advocacy: Support in navigating systems and accessing resources.
The Importance Of Host Families
Host families play a crucial role in the RHY program. By opening their homes, they provide a safe and supportive environment for youth who may be experiencing instability. The benefits of becoming a host family include:
- Making a Difference: Directly impacting the lives of young people in need.
- Community Engagement: Strengthening community ties and fostering a culture of support.
- Personal Growth: Gaining new perspectives and experiences through interaction with diverse youth.
Event Details
The Host Home Gathering Event will feature presentations from program leaders, including Tricia Alford, the Director of the RHY program, and Ashley McGowan, the Youth and Family Caseworker. Attendees will have the opportunity to:
- Learn about the responsibilities and rewards of being a host family.
- Hear testimonials from current host families and youth participants.
- Ask questions and engage in discussions about the program.
This event is a vital step in expanding the network of support for runaway and homeless youth in the community. By attending, potential host families can gain a deeper understanding of how they can contribute to this important cause.
For those interested in making a difference, the Host Home Gathering Event is an excellent opportunity to learn more and get involved. Together, we can empower youth and help them build a brighter future.
Sources
- Runaway and Homeless Youth Program schedules Host Home Gathering Event | The Daily Post, My Little Falls.
































