Miami’s Affirming YOUth Foundation receives grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs to support its PROJECT SEEDS – HEALS Initiative
Miami, FL – October 1st, 2019 – Affirming YOUth Foundation, with generous support from the U.S. Department of Justice – Office of Justice Programs is proud to announce a new initiative supporting victims of gang violence for Miami-Dade youth who reside in the Liberty City community.
OJJPD awarded Affirming YOUth Foundation $960,000.00, over three years, for its innovative PROJECT SEEDS – HEALS Initiative PROJECT Social, Emotional, Enhancement, and Development for Success – Helping, Empowering, and Lifting Society (Project SEEDS – HEALS). Affirming YOUth was one of nine recipients in the United States to receive funding.
PROJECT SEEDS – HEALS is a comprehensive program that enhances public safety in schools and community through community-based behavioral health and wellness services to trauma-impacted youth; provide mentoring and intensive wraparound services that address environmental factors, family factors, and daily living factors; and collaborative community partnerships to provide a continuum of care.
“This grant will allow us to implement comprehensive strategies that youth can use to transform their lives,” said Jonathan Spikes, Founder and Executive Director of Affirming YOUth. “We, the community, are coming together to support the youth in developing and maintaining safety.”
Affirming YOUth Foundation provides innovative programs and services to youth in partnership with Miami Dade County Public Schools and, it operates a resource center that helps youth develop life and coping skills.
Organizations working in partnership with Affirming Youth Foundation, Inc. to provide services to this population include the Miami-Dade Department of Juvenile Services, Florida International University – The Education Effect, Walking One Stop, Neighbors and Neighbors Association, Career Source of South Florida, Urban League of Greater Miami, Acceleration Academies, and Historic Black Police Precinct Courthouse and Museum.
“This is exciting,” said Wayne Rawlins, Project Manager for the Miami-Dade County Anti-Violence Initiative. “I’m confident that this initiative will strengthen youth and family services to ensure all youth are healthy, safe, engaged, and supported.”
To learn more about Affirming YOUth visit www.affirmingyouth.org
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Affirming YOUth Foundation
Affirming YOUth Foundation mission is providing trauma-informed services that meet the educational, emotional, physical, and mental health needs of youth and their families.