This week, The Bridge for Youth was honored to welcome Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, Senator Dibble, and Representative Hornstein to our campus for a tour, commUNITY building, ideating possibilities, and a presentation of our strategic plan to expand programming and housing options for young families.
The Bridge for Youth is committed to addressing the unique needs of young families experiencing homelessness given 35% of youth experiencing homelessness are also pregnant and/or parenting (50% in Hennepin County). This critical investment of The Bridge includes expanding our transitional living program, Marlene’s Place, from 5 to 15 units and adding a new portfolio of 20-24 supportive housing units for young families. This expansion project is grounded in youth engagement and centered in youth voice in partnership with Healthcare Reparations Cooperative and funded by a capacity building grant by Minnesota Housing Finance Agency.
The Bridge for Youth is seeking $3.5 million in a capital request from the State Legislature during the 2024 session. The sponsors of this legislation are Senator Scott Dibble and Representative Frank Hornstein, both represent the district encompassing South Minneapolis where The Bridge for Youth is located. This fall, The Bridge hosted members of committees and their staff from both the House of Representatives and the Senate on the bonding tour.
The young parents were thrilled to meet our special guests, “I just met the (Lieutenant) Governor!”. And their children were more than happy to share high fives. The Bridge is proud to work alongside youth-focused changemakers who share our collective vision for a community where all youth feel safe, accepted, and supported. Thank you to our legislative champions, commUNITY, and partners who are instrumental in propelling this vision forward. Details of The Bridge’s Strategic Vision, including expansion of programming and housing options for young families, can be found here.
For more information or to discuss opportunities to partner and support this project, please contact Lisa Mears, President, The Bridge for Youth, 612-508-1279 or [email protected].
Philámayaye & Miigwech, Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, for supporting yOur youth.
