New Transitional Living Program Opens in Johnson County
This week reStart will be opening its Johnson County Transitional Living Program (youthStart) for single individuals age 18-21 -- who we often referred to as transitional-age youth. Strong community support from area agencies and professionals who participate in Johnson County's Continuum of Care on Homelessness and the Transitional-Age Youth Planning Project (both facilitated by UCS) have helped make this new low barrier housing opportunity a reality.
This new shared housing opportunity is available for transitional-age youth experiencing homelessness. Participants will be supported in their pathway to fully independent living and will participate in life skills and financial education, case management, and counseling for up to 18 months.
Applications are still being accepted and can be found at reStart's website.
For additional questions about eligibility and the program, please contact Erika Helin (clinical program manager) at 816-472-5664 ext. 258 or ehelin@restartinc.org, or Rita Carr (youth program manager) at 816-472-5664 ext. 223 or rcarr@restartinc.org. Donations of housing items are also being accepted. For a list of needed items, please contact Erika or Rita.
UCS Guest Editorial in the Kansas City Star 913 Section
Recently, the KC Star 913 section included a guest editorial from UCS. The piece focuses on the role of housing affordability in creating a thriving Johnson County. A new collaborative effort, the Johnson County Health Equity Network is taking up housing affordability as it works to address issues that impact the well-being of those working and living in Johnson County. The Network's Leadership Team includes community organizations, decision-makers, and community members impacted by issues such as housing affordability. The collaboration is being facilitated by United Community Services of Johnson County (UCS) and the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment.
