Crittenton Center receives $2.5M federal grant to help runaway, homeless, and street youth

SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) — The Crittenton Center has been awarded a $2,500,000 federal grant to help the launch of a new program to help runaway, homeless, and street youth.

The grant comes from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), as the Crittenton Center receives $500,000 annually for the next five years, according to a release from the organization. The money will go to help the launch and operation of a comprehensive street outreach program dedicated to assisting runaway, homeless, and street youth up to the age of 26.

Kim Scorza, Crittenton Center CEO, said they are deeply grateful for the support and recognition from SAMHSA.

“This grant will enable us to expand our reach and provide life-changing support to young people who are struggling with homelessness. Our goal is to help youth and young adults find safety, stability, and hope for a better future,” Scorza said.

The release said the new program is designed to provide essential street-based outreach to help vulnerable youth escape homelessness and transition into safe and stable housing. The services offered include immediate needs assessments, crisis intervention, access to emergency shelter, case management, and connections to long-term housing solutions.

The street outreach program will also focus on addressing the underlying issues contributing to youth homelessness, such as mental health challenges, substance abuse, and lack of access to educational and employment opportunities. Crittenton Center aims to empower these young individuals to build independent lives.

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