More Than a Roof: How Stable Housing Transforms Young Lives
Imagine turning 18 and suddenly being on your own—with no family to call, no stable place to sleep, and no idea how to make ends meet. For too many young people in our community, this is reality. At Community Youth Services, we believe no one should face adulthood without support. Our Young Adult Housing Program offers more than shelter—it provides stability, guidance, and the chance to build a future with dignity and hope.
At Community Youth Services (CYS), we believe that every young person deserves a safe place to call home and the support to move forward. That’s exactly what our Young Adult Housing Program (YAH) provides for youth ages 18 to 24 who can’t safely live with a parent or guardian. Many have been kicked out, fled unsafe situations, or aged out of systems (like foster care) without a safety net. These young people are at serious risk of homelessness and need stable housing and support to move forward.
Why Affordable Housing for Young People Matters
In 2023, one in three people experiencing homelessness in our region was between 16 and 21 years old. Skyrocketing rents, limited affordable housing, early trauma, and the dangers of street life make it harder than ever for youth to find stability. The majority of these young people do not have family to turn to. According to Danille Kettel, Young Adult Housing Program Director, “Too many young people are being pushed into homelessness simply because rent costs more than they can afford. When most of your income goes to keeping a roof over your head, there’s nothing left for food, transportation, or even staying in school. We see every day how urgent the affordable housing crisis is, and how vital it is to create solutions that give youth a real chance at stability.”
Meeting Youth Where They Are
That’s where CYS steps in. With support from this program, young people receive more than just a roof over their heads. They get personalized help through case management, counseling, job and school support, and life skills coaching. Services last up to two years (sometimes longer if needed), and every part of the program is designed to meet youth where they are—emotionally, socially, and practically. We focus on building permanent connections, supporting emotional well-being, and helping young people find their path to stability and success. We use trauma-informed care and positive youth development practices, keeping caseloads small to ensure each young person gets the attention and support they deserve.
More Than Shelter. A Path Forward
The success of YAH can be attributed to our program staff’s deep commitment to walking alongside young adults as they work toward self-sufficiency. In our program, self-sufficiency means reaching critical milestones like completing high school, finding a job, increasing income, and ultimately securing permanent housing. Here are some recent highlights from YAH participants.
- Enrolled in or obtained GED/HS diploma: 82%
- Employed full or part-time: 63%
- Increased income at program exit: 70%
- Exited to safe and stable housing: 72%
- Exited to permanent housing: 68%
- Engaged in active job search: 87%
- Average length of stay: 19 months
Housing is Just the Beginning
These outcomes show the powerful impact of providing not just housing, but guidance, structure, and opportunities. Our youth are capable, resilient, and determined—and when given the right support, they thrive. “When a young person has a safe place to sleep, everything changes. Stable housing allows them to heal, grow, and imagine a future beyond survival. It’s more than a roof—it’s the starting point for hope, opportunity, and a life they get to build on their own terms.” Julie Wilson, Program Coordinator
CYS has been a trusted partner in youth services for over 50 years, serving over 4,000 youth and families annually. The Young Adult Housing Program is critical to that work, offering not just housing, but hope.
You Can Help Turn Housing Into a Home
When a young person moves into stable housing, they’re not just getting a roof over their head—they’re beginning a new chapter. You can be part of that transformation by donating everyday essentials like pots and pans, dishes, sheets, or cleaning supplies. These simple items make a big difference as youth take steps toward independence.
Click here to learn how you can donate to this program.
Click here to learn more about the program.