One week after a new report showed Central New York’s homeless communities growing exponentially, a door opens welcoming Syracuse’s run-away teens.
Amber Wells is the program manager for “Rescue Missions Runaway and Homeless Youth Shelter.” She was all smiles Tuesday on the steps of the newly dedicated home along a quiet tree-lined street in Syracuse. The location is not being disclosed to ensure the privacy and safety of the minors who will be staying at the home.
The well-appointed home boasts nine dedicated bedrooms for each teen, ages 12 to just shy of their 18th birthday. It has a gathering room, separate showers, and a gleaming kitchen. One thing it could use more of, Wells says are “gender affirming” hygiene products.
“It really just means like nail polish, makeup, hair stuff, jewelry, shaving kits, we are definitely in need of ethnic care products, so that we have stuff for everyone that comes to the doors,” Wells said.
If you have time to volunteer or are a social services professional looking for work, Wells says they’re hiring. You can learn more here.
