Washtenaw County Launches $4.2M Youth Homelessness Effort

Washtenaw County is rolling out $4.2 million in federal funding to expand housing and support services for young people experiencing homelessness, with several local agencies set to open or grow programs aimed at residents under 25.

The funding comes through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Youth Homelessness Demonstration Project and will support new efforts through the Washtenaw County Continuum of Care, a network of agencies working to prevent and respond to homelessness.

According to a Washtenaw County news release, the funding is intended to strengthen youth services and address gaps in the current system.

Among the agencies involved, Ozone House and Our House will expand housing options for young adults ages 18 to 24.

“With dozens of young people on our waiting list, living without housing, I am looking forward to expanding our ability to meet their needs and get everyone the safety and care they deserve,” Ozone House Associate Director Danielle Zochowski said in the release.

Ozone House, which has served youth facing housing insecurity since 1969, plans to use the funding to expand both homelessness prevention efforts and permanent housing support.

Our House, which supports foster youth as they transition into adulthood, will expand its housing program for pregnant and parenting young adults. According to the release, the program currently serves that group up to age 19 and will now extend to age 25. The organization will also offer parenting coaching and other support for young mothers.

The Washtenaw Housing Alliance will help connect young people with housing vouchers, rapid rehousing beds and permanent housing options, while the Corner Health Center will provide physical and mental health services, according to the release.

Washtenaw County’s Office of Community and Economic Development, which leads the Continuum of Care, said in the release that the expanded programs are expected to be available soon.

Young people in need of housing-related help can contact the Housing Access for Washtenaw County Call Center at 734-961-1999 or the Ozone House crisis line at 734-662-2222.