MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – Dane County is investing money into a new transitional living facility specifically aimed at assisting youth as they age out of foster care.
Brandi Grayson, a Madison native, grew up in foster care. She says there were many resources available to young people at the time.
“We had outside resources, we had community centers, we had neighborhood moms, we had neighborhood coaches, we had neighborhood programs and Bootstrap and NIP (Neighborhood Impact Program) and all kinds of programs that we were all involved in. It kept us out of trouble,” Grayson said.
Grayson currently serves as the CEO of Urban Triage, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to empower Black families through community leadership, advocacy, and educational opportunities. She says there have been many funding cuts since she became an adult, making resources difficult to find.
“We see the consequences of that in the form of community violence and gang violence. The young people we work with often say, 'There's nothing we can do.' . we have nowhere to go. Adults don't listen, schools aren't made for us. ”
Dane County leaders are also noticing a trend. In a press release, County Executive Joe Parisi announced a new initiative: a transitional living program for youth. This resource aims to bridge the gap between foster care and permanent housing.
“Young people need and deserve a safe and stable home environment as they transition from foster care to the community,” said Parisi of the County Executive Office. “This will make a huge difference in the lives of young people who learn how to prepare for the workforce, manage their finances, connect to stable housing, and manage their health while building support networks.”
Grayson said the six youth will be placed in the Madison home, where they will be provided with peer support housing, navigation, workforce development, leadership development and on-site trauma recovery.
The county will fund the project and Urban Triage will oversee the Ross Street facility. Grayson is trying to bring back the tools that were once available.
“Our partnership with the county is one of the best we have ever had in advocating for our clients and communities and being heard.”
Participants will move into safe permanent housing within two years of transitional living, according to the county. You will need to save up funds in advance to support your relocation.
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