Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $7.5 million will help establish four Youth Safe Spaces in the state, including one in Wayne County.
Four nonprofit community-based organizations will use the funding to launch safe spaces to address the behavioral health needs of those aged 12-24. They will be administered by the state Office of Mental Health and offer safe spaces, resources, and connections to help youth navigate mental health challenges.
“Young New Yorkers today are facing significant mental health pressures that can push them to the edge of crisis,” Governor Hochul said. “By establishing Youth Safe Spaces throughout our state, we can help our children connect with one another and be supported in an environment that promotes positive mental well-being.”
The governor added that the spaces are designed to reduce isolation, promote positive relationships, and connect youth with both traditional and non-traditional supports by providing youth with peer-led environments.
The Delphi Drug and Alcohol Council of Wayne County will receive $250,000 annually over five years to operate the Alex Eligh Community Center in Newark. The other three awardees are:
- LaSalle School Inc.; $500,000 annually over five years to establish a program in the Conroy Building in Albany
- AIDS Center of Queens County; $500,000 annually over five years to establish a program at 62-07 Woodside Ave. in Queens
- Friends of the CanTeen; $250,000 annually over five years to operate the CanTeen of Central New York in Cicero
The initiative is funded through the FY 2026 state budget.
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