Bridge the Gap for Homeless Youth

Dear Friend,

A 2018 DC Point-in-Time Count of the city’s homeless registered 6,904 individuals, including 417 unaccompanied youth. The majority of these youth were between the ages of 18 and 24. Many have recently immigrated to the US and need comprehensive support to surmount multiple challenges as they transition to adulthood. Through your support of LAYC’s housing programs, immigrant and other homeless youth like Noely find stable housing, wraparound services, and a caring support network enabling them to achieve their personal and professional goals. Here is Noely’s inspiring story:

Noely arrived in the US from Central America in 2016. When unexpected family difficulties arose shortly after her arrival, she was left on her own to face the challenges of being an immigrant youth with no place to live. She felt hopeless, having no other contacts to rely upon for support or guidance in her new country.

However, her Noely’s outlook changed when she was connected with dedicated and caring staff at Latin American Youth Center. After receiving temporary housing and other services through another nonprofit, she was referred to LAYC’s 18-month Transitional Living Program in October 2018. The program provided safe and secure housing through a host family, dedicated case managers and mentors, connections to employment and education, and assistance navigating the immigration process.

Noely is now studying at YouthBuild, an alternative DC high school, and is maintaining a part-time job. Her case manager says she never misses a case management appointment and is an amazing student with perfect attendance and excellent grades. She has big dreams to become a nurse, to better help her mother, who battles chronic illness. Noely’s employer values her as a hard-working team member. She is making the most of her employment by regularly contributing to a savings account, and sending her mother money to assist with medical bills. She is committed to fulfilling her personal responsibilities in the immigration process, and never misses a court date. Not only is Noely making huge strides academically and professionally, but she is also cultivating supportive relationships. She has a positive relationship with her host mom, has made many friends in the program, and frequently participates in activities with other youth and host families. 

Noely’s perseverance and optimism in the face of great odds have enabled her to achieve many of her personal goals. She recently received her work permit, is applying for asylum, and looks forward to taking her GED exams soon, now that she has the required ID.

Support from donors like you has been critical to Noely’s success. Please consider donating to help more young people facing homelessness, like Noely, receive the support they need to thrive and pursue their dreams. Even small donations make a difference by providing youth with essential items, such as a $50 metro card to cover transportation to school, work, and doctor’s visits.

Thank you for your generous support,

Lupi Quinteros-Grady
President & CEO