Our innovative programming prevents long-term involvement in foster care and mitigates the risks of homelessness by securing stable housing and guardianship for young people from the child welfare system. Youth Connection Coordinators identify individuals with whom young people have pre-existing relationships such as extended family and community members and helps to build a strong network of supportive adults who assist youth achieve educational and employment goals, develop trust and self-worth, stabilize housing, and improve mental health.

Youth Connection Coordinators and mentors assist young people in all aspects of securing stable and appropriate housing based on their unique needs. Young people are assisted in locating options, attending rental viewings, negotiating with landlords, procuring furniture and home necessities, and moving into and setting up their new spaces. StepStones ensures youth are able to meet monthly rental payments long-term through employment support, budgeting assistance, and housing subsidies when required.

Homelessness Prevention

StepStones’ Youth Support Services Program serves young people aged 15-24 who are in and transitioning out of the foster care and child welfare systems with little to no support in their lives. We provide early intervention and preventative programming to ensure youth who are marginalized and vulnerable achieve safe, long-term housing in order to be successful at school and in the workforce, increase community connections and supportive networks, and reduce future risks of re-entering the group home and shelter systems.

See our 2023 Impact Report for more details.