Sioux City, IA: Crittenton Center has been awarded a federal grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) totaling $500,000 annually for the next five years. This funding will support the launch and operation of a comprehensive street outreach program dedicated to assisting runaway, homeless, and street youth up to the age of 26.
Kim Scorza, Crittenton Center CEO, noted, “We are deeply grateful for SAMHSA’s support and recognition of the critical work we do. This grant will enable us to expand our reach and provide life-changing support to young people who are struggling with homelessness. Our goal is to help youth and young adults find safety, stability, and hope for a better future.”
The new program is designed to provide essential street-based outreach services aimed at helping vulnerable youth escape homelessness and transition into safe and stable housing. The services offered include immediate needs assessments, crisis intervention, access to emergency shelter, case management, and connections to long-term housing solutions.
The street outreach program will also focus on addressing the underlying issues contributing to youth homelessness, such as mental health challenges, substance abuse, and lack of access to educational and employment opportunities. By providing holistic support, Crittenton Center aims to empower these young individuals to build independent lives.
For almost 130 years, Crittenton Center has been dedicated to serving the needs of children and families in our community. This new initiative represents a significant step forward in their mission of Sheltering, Educating, and Empowering Children, Individuals, and Families in Iowa.
