A nonprofit has received a five-year state award to establish a Youth Safe Space in Tompkins County, expanding peer-led mental-health and social support for young people in the Southern Tier.
The New York State Office of Mental Health said St. John’s Community Services will receive $500,000 annually for five years. The organization will use the funding to create a new program for young people ages 12 to 24.
Youth Safe Spaces are designed as welcoming, nonclinical settings where young people can connect with trained peers and receive practical support. The state program calls for services that include mental-health and social support, help connecting with community resources, and basic amenities such as showers and laundry facilities.
The model is intended to reach young people who may not initially seek help through a traditional clinic. Staff members are expected to build partnerships with licensed behavioral-health providers so participants can be connected with treatment and other services when appropriate.
Under the state’s program requirements, a newly established Youth Safe Space is expected to serve at least 500 unduplicated young people each year and remain open during hours that are accessible to students and young adults, including school breaks and holidays.
The Office of Mental Health announced the Tompkins County award as New York opened its first state-funded Youth Safe Space in Albany. The agency has not announced a location or opening date for the Tompkins County program.
Additional implementation details are expected from St. John’s Community Services and the state as planning advances.
