A brighter future for Rhode Island’s at-risk youth

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) —  The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is helping families by assisting youth who are at high risk for homelessness.

HUD awarded $354,369 to the youth and families who are involved with the foster care system.

With the alliance of public housing authorities, Public Child Welfare Agencies, RIHousing and The Department of Children Youth and Families, the launch of the Family Unification Program will provide 28 housing vouchers to at-risk youth and families in Rhode Island.

FUP applicants are filed into two groups:

• Families lacking adequate housing which play a primary factor in the displacement of the family’s child
• Youth aged 18-24 who left foster care, and some youth 16 or older who are going to leave foster care within 90 days and are at risk of becoming homeless

DCYF reported 160 youth and families as potential FUP referrals.

The Rhode Island Continuum of Care assessed 73 youth households ages 18-24 who have already experienced homelessness, or are at-risk.

HUD shared that housing vouchers are a part of Rhode Island’s public housing authorities history, but have dissolved over time due to other housing authorities or households ending their participation in the program. Elected officials expressed their appreciation for the return of housing vouchers.

“Ensuring every family and child has a safe and stable place to call home is a basic, core community commitment that helps give our youth the best possible chance to succeed. With these new federal housing vouchers, more Rhode Island families will be able to live together and thrive together and youth aging out of foster care will be better supported as they enter adulthood,” said Senator Jack Reed. “I look forward to seeing these vouchers helping our most vulnerable Rhode Islanders,” he added.

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, who also attended the conference this morning, said, “These federal vouchers will help youth and families who have been through a difficult time get safe, supportive housing and most importantly, stay together with loved ones, as they regain their footing.”

“Every young person deserves a loving family and a stable home,” Congressman Seth Magaziner expressed. “I am excited that Rhode Island is receiving a federal Family Unification Voucher award, and am committed to working with my colleagues to ensure that all young Rhode Islanders can have a happy and safe childhood.”

Congressman Gabe Amo added, “This program is vital to ensuring that families and children have the resources to remain together. I am eager to see the positive impact that these funds will have on the lives of Rhode Islanders and our critical mission to reduce and ultimately end homelessness.”

DCYF will be the primary referral partner for this program. There is no time limit on FUP vouchers issued to families. The program’s statue limitation is 36 months, and extensions may be granted up to 24 months upon special requirements.