PHA opens first supportive housing for youth exiting foster care or experiencing housing insecurities

The Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) celebrated the opening of a newly constructed community at 2112 Ridge Avenue.

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PHA celebrating the opening of 2112 Ridge Ave, their first facility for aging out foster children and housing insecure youth, (left to right:) PHA President & CEO Kelvin Jeremiah, Councilman Jeffrey Young , DHS Commissioner Kimberly Ali, Benchmark Construction President Kenn Penn, PHA Board Chair Lynette Brown-Sow, Former Council President & PHA Board Member Darrell Clarke, City of Philadelphia's Chief Housing and Urban Development Officer Angela Brooks.

This supportive housing initiative is designed to assist young adults exiting the foster care system or facing housing insecurity.“Safe, stable housing provides young adults leaving foster care with the foundation they need to focus on building their futures instead of worrying about where they will sleep at night,” said PHA CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah. “Our goal is to prevent homelessness, stabilize young adults, and support them in achieving self-sufficiency. PHA is deeply grateful to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner and First Lady Melania Trump, who have both been strong advocates for youths aging out of foster care.”

“Valley Youth House is dedicated to empowering young people by fostering dependable relationships, providing safe spaces, and building strong community connections,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “This initiative is driven by robust intergovernmental partnerships at the local, state, and federal levels, along with the power of collaboration.”