OTDA Helps Break Ground on Homeless Youth Housing Project in Schenectady

April 20, 2010

by OTDA

Albany, NY – April 20, 2010 – (RealEstateRama) — The State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) recently helped SAFE, Inc. break ground on its new project to expand SAFE House, an emergency housing facility for runaway and homeless youth and pregnant and parenting teens, at an event in Schenectady. SAFE, Inc. has been providing support services, outreach, counseling and referrals to youth who are at risk of sexual exploitation for nearly 25 years.The organization received over $1.23 million from OTDA’s Homeless Housing and Assistance Program (HHAP) to develop 6 emergency housing units and 12 beds. Other funding came from The Schenectady Foundation, the New York State Legislature, and First Reformed Church of Schenectady, and individual contributions.

Executive Deputy Beth Berlin and other dignitaries breaking ground at SAFE House. Elizabeth Berlin, Executive Deputy Commissioner of OTDA, pointed out the integral value of the services provided by SAFE, Inc.

“By providing safe housing and services for homeless and runaway youth, we have a unique opportunity to break the cycle of homelessness and help these teenagers, while still at a young age, become better equipped to achieve economic stability and self sufficiency in the future,” Berlin said.