2007 Maxwell Finalist - Common Ground: The Christopher’s Foyer Program
Overview:
Based on a successful European model, the Foyer program, created by Common Ground in 2004, is an innovative housing-based career development program targeting young adults ages 18-24 who are “aging out” of foster or residential care, are homeless, or at risk of homelessness. The Christopher’s Foyer program was the first in New York City to address the needs of young people aging out of foster care, 26 percent of whom become homeless in the city each year. The Foyer is designed to prevent homelessness by providing a comprehensive, two-year transitional stage that paves the way to permanent housing, stable employment, and independent adulthood.
Video Presentation:
Watch the 20 minute presentation by Common Ground's leadership at the Maxwell Finalist Presentations event on January 24, 2008, including question and answer with the 2007 Maxwell Awards' Advisory Committee.
Location: New York, New York
Target Population: Youth
# of new units created: 20
Income level of residents:
- < 30% AMI - 96% of residents
- 31 - 50% AMI - 3% of residents
- 51 - 80% AMI - 1% of residents
Support Services Offered:
- On-site services: case management, individualized counseling, drug and alcohol counseling, entitlement advocacy, health and mental health services, budgeting, assistance with training in activities of daily living, and employment services
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