10-06-2014 HRA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Housing and Redevelopment Minutes Page 2 October 6,2014 Jeremy Barnhart introduced Cheryl Wold of Open Doors for Youth. He explained that the program provides services for homeless youth between the ages of 16 through 21. He stated that the organization would like to inform the HRA of their plans to open a facility in Elk River. He stated that if any action is required by the HRA in the future, they would let him know. Ms. Wold stated that she is the chairperson of the board and introduced Marilyn Olson and Lori Lang, other members of the board. Ms. Wold provided a handout, explaining Open Doors for Youth,its vision,mission and programs for youth. Ms. Wold stated that they will be linked to other groups throughout the community. She noted that the Sherburne County United Way is their fiscal agent. Ms. Wold explained that the purpose of the program is to get the immediate needs of youth met that are experiencing homelessness. She stated that this is a state-wide issue, noting that the Wilder Institute of Minnesota reports approximately 2,500 youth on their own each night,with no stability and no safe place to stay. She noted that the homeless youth are not eligible for CAER because they have no address, nor are they eligible for Great River Family Promise. Ms. Wold stated that the Home for Youth operation in Anoka has been in operation approximately 20 months and reports Elk River youth are showing up there. Ms. Wold explained that a number of homeless youth were foster children who have turned 18. Also, in some families, when a child turns 18 they are expected to leave home. She noted that their program will be based on successful youth programs in Bloomington, Edina and Anoka. Ms. Wold stated that they are looking for a no-rent site to cut down on costs,which are anticipated to be $8,000 for the first year. If this is not possible, their next option is a low-rent site. They have found a site in the building next to the Jackson Avenue fire station,but the rent is $1,600/month. She felt this was a good location, since it was close to the central downtown yet in a more "discreet" setting. Ms.Wold noted that they will need to find supporters for the rent and utilities. She explained that the operation would be staffed by well-trained volunteers. Commissioner Motin asked where the youth would be housed. Ms. Wold stated that they would utilize emergency overnight shelters in Minneapolis and St. Cloud,but that these shelters are often full. She stated that eventually, they hope to establish host homes. Also, staff would try to help clients to extend their stays with families they are currently housed with. She noted that transportation is another issue since there is no bus service in the area. Commissioner Chuba asked what the ratio of females to males that are homeless youth was, and how many they expected to serve. Ms. Wold stated that approximately 56 percent are female and 44 percent are male. She stated that Anoka started with 10-12 youth coming in per day and now there are 20-25 a day, and a total of 300 youth currently accessing their services. She stated it would be difficult to know how many youth they will serve in Elk River. PDNERED Dr NATURE