The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded over $8.5 million in funding to Clark County and the Southern Nevada Homelessness Continuum of Care.

The federal allocation of $8,548,153 million will bolster Clark County’s Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program to support young people facing housing insecurity. Nearly $72 million in grants were awarded to 14 communities to prevent and address youth homelessness.

Now that the funds have been announced, the County will work with community youth serving partners to develop a coordinated community plan.

“Expanding access to critical support for young Americans who face homelessness—including funding assistance for affordable housing and wrap-around services to improve health and wellness—advances HUD’s goal to prevent and end youth homelessness,” said The Honorable Adrianne Todman, HUD Department Head. “Getting young people the help they need to transition from homelessness means we are preparing a generation to find their footing and live to their fullest potential.”

The funding supports the community plan to implement innovative programs and services to support youth facing homelessness. These services may include mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, job training and educational opportunities, life skills development, case management, and financial literacy education.

“It’s heartbreaking to see so many young people in Southern Nevada forced to endure the harsh reality of homelessness,” said Clark County Commission Chairman Tick Segerblom. “In Clark County, this issue is particularly acute, with countless young people without a safe place to call home.”

This funding will also include wraparound services, rapid rehousing, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing. These housing options will be paired with essential services to help young people stabilize their lives.