Last Update: September 15th, 2010
Genesee County DHS child welfare director Stacie Bowens told members of the Flint media Thursday about a pilot program that provides permanent housing and other supports to young people in transition from foster care to independence.
“I believe that Genesee County DHS, in partnership with the Flint-based nonprofit, Operation Unification, are working to ensure youths in foster care have viable opportunities that help them become successful,” Bowens said.
The program is modeled after Operation Unification’s existing program that provides support for families who need housing. Participants of the program receive tenant training, credit counseling, financial budgeting, parenting classes, and childcare.
The young people are also paired with a mentor to help them on their journey to success. That mentor helps them learn the skills necessary to eventually own their own homes, like the proper way to shop, clean and plan their budgets.
The nonprofit began finding homes this summer. So far, three young adults were placed in homes successfully.
Those interested in the housing help must fill out an application at Operation Unification’s office at 2050 Warner St. in Flint.
For more information, please visit www.michigan.gov/fostercare, www.michigan.gov/fyit
and www.ougroups.net.
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