Youth experiencing homelessness are five times more likely to remain homeless into adulthood. We can't let that happen. I’m proud to be part of a community in South Bend, Indiana, working together to raise a total of $125,000 to provide essential street-level services to youth facing homelessness. On September 6th, I'm "Going Over the Edge" by rappelling down the side of a building in downtown South Bend to raise awareness for this critical issue.
The Youth Service Bureau (YSB) works with thousands of teens each year who have nowhere else to turn. Many are forced out of their homes due to differences in religious beliefs or because of their sexual orientation. Others are fleeing abusive or neglectful parents or escaping violence at home. Some live in cars or out of their backpacks, yet they still attend school diligently, silently battling housing instability. I’m going over the edge to show these young people that we are here for them, and that their current situation doesn’t define their future.
The new YSB Center for Youth Success will provide these teens with a safe place until they can get back on their feet. This 24/7 center will offer laundry services, lounges, gym, a kitchen, a medical clinic, mental health resources, transitional housing, and more. Most importantly, it will be a warm place filled with friendly faces where they are accepted just as they are.
Join me in taking a stand to end youth homelessness. Let’s make sure every young person in our community has the opportunity to be true to themselves and build a solid foundation for their future. Make a tax-deductible donation today, and you can change a life forever.
