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Youth Connection gets state, federal money

The nonprofit Youth Connection in Shelton received $500,000 in federal money to help develop transitional housing for young adults ages 18 to 24 who are either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

The funding request was included in the 2022 Omnibus Appropriations Package recently passed by Congress. In a news release, the organization states Rep. Marilyn Strickland, D-Tacoma and Sen. Maria Cantwell requested the Community Project money.

The nonprofit also received

$1.28 million in the state's 2021 capital budget, sponsored by the Office of Homeless Youth and state Reps. Dan Griffey, R-Allyn, and Drew MacEwen, R-Union.

"We are thrilled by the outpouring of support from both the community and our state's legislative and congressional leaders," Youth Connection Executive Director Susan Kirchoff said in a news release. "This housing project is the necessary link we need to help at-risk young adults achieve their best possible outcomes and prevent chronic homelessness."

The state and federal money will allow the group to purchase and retrofit property to offer stable transitional housing space. The Youth Connection is conducting a feasibility assessment of its Shelton location at 123 S. Second St. for the project, Kirchoff states.

The group also operates a youth drop-in center in Belfair. The two centers are for people ages 12 to 24 to hang out and receive computer access, hygiene supplies, food and clothing.

The organization also operates two emergency off-site shelter houses that provide space for up to eight young people. The funding is not long-term.

The Shelton branch Friday debuted a monthly open mic night. About 50 people attended the event.

Author Bio

Gordon Weeks, Reporter

Shelton-Mason County Journal & Belfair Herald

 

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