Supportive housing initiative inaugurated in Southern Delaware for youth exiting foster care: "It's not a shelter, it's their residence"
In a significant move to address the housing needs of a vulnerable population, West End Neighborhood House has opened a new 10-bedroom, 10-bath supportive housing home in Greenwood and Harrington, Delaware. This marks the first of its kind in Sussex County, providing a much-needed resource for youth aging out of the foster care system.
For many young people in Sussex County, transitioning to independent life can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with city life or public transit. Each year, approximately 60 to 100 young people age out of the foster care system in Delaware, and finding stable housing and support can be a daunting task.
Fortunately, a range of resources and supports are available in Sussex County, specifically focused on housing and wraparound services.
**Housing:**
The most recent addition to these resources is a pioneering housing program aimed at homeless and former foster youth. This new home, located on 10 acres of farmland, represents a major advancement in providing stable housing for this vulnerable population.
**Wraparound Services:**
Delaware Health and Social Services (DHSS) offers a range of assistance, including support for homelessness and economic challenges. They have service centers available in Sussex County that provide access to these supports.
Behavioral health crisis services are also available 24/7 in Sussex County at (800) 345-6785, which can be vital for youth transitioning out of care who may need mental health or crisis intervention support.
Community organizations such as Independent Living for Young Adults (ILYA) support young people aging out of foster care in Delaware, including Sussex County. These programs typically focus on life skills, education, and personal development to help youth transition successfully to adulthood.
While specific comprehensive wraparound services were not detailed in the results, the presence of dedicated housing initiatives, behavioral health support, and programs like ILYA indicate a structured support network for youth aging out of foster care in Sussex County. For further personalized assistance, contacting DHSS or local service centers directly would provide the most up-to-date and detailed information.
The new home, previously a bed and breakfast, is designed to provide each resident with their own room and private bathroom. West End Neighborhood House sees its sites as providing homes, not facilities, and allows residents to customize their living spaces. The goal is to continue providing safe, affordable, and accessible housing for youth aging out of foster care and unaccompanied youth.
West End Neighborhood House already offers 43 supportive housing beds in New Castle County and aims to welcome its first residents in the coming weeks, once furnishing is complete. The establishment of the new facility in Sussex County was years in the making, with the organization wanting to bring its services to Sussex County to help youth who currently live there remain in the state and stay connected to their resources and potential family. The goal is not only to fill this house but to grow into Kent County in the future.
The new facility offers privacy, peace, and permanence to the youth it houses, surrounded by 10 acres of farmland. West End Neighborhood House relies on financial support from readers to continue its mission of providing safe and supportive homes for youth in need.
Science and health-and-wellness can play crucial roles in supporting the successful transition of young people aging out of the foster care system. For instance, evidence-based programs focusing on psychological and physical health, life skills, and personal development could be beneficial for these youth. Additionally, investments in research to understand the unique challenges faced by this population and develop targeted interventions could further strengthen the support network.
