Brooklyn Avenues Still Sheltering to Homeless Teens, Despite Challenges

Katherine Meerse, executive director of Avenues for Youth, says they are still working to shelter teens and follow the stay-at-home order. Because of the order, they also had to cancel fundraisers and ask the public to consider making a donation on their website. Avenues for Youth also operates Brooklyn Avenues, the only shelter for homeless teens in the northwest metro.

“Our youth are certainly feeling some anxiety, understandably. We’ve increased our mental health hours in order to give them additional support,” explained Meerse.

Meerse said the team is also modeling self care. Volunteer shifts have been canceled as well.

Cancelling fundraisers during a time when costs are on the increase is troubling. “We’re seeing food, utility and staffing costs go up,” said Meerse. “The best way people can help us is through a donation on our website.”

You can access Avenues for Youth and donate by clicking here.

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