WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) this week announced a grant for the Safe Harbor Center in Brunswick through the Family Youth and Services Bureau’s (FYSB) Basic Center Program (BCP), supported by Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), that aims to strengthen community-based programs that meet the immediate needs of runaway and homeless youth and their families.
This funding will support the Safe Harbor Center’s emergency shelter for homeless and runaway children, “Zach’s Place.”
“The BCP is an important federal initiative that prioritizes children’s mental health, well-being, and safety. The Safe Harbor Center does life-saving work to protect and serve at-risk families and youth in South Georgia. I’m thrilled that this grant is going to such a deserving organization and will continue to support initiatives that set our children up for a lifetime of success,” said Rep. Carter.
“We are deeply honored to receive the Department of Health and Human Services grant of $240,436, a transformative lifeline for one of Safe Harbor Center, Inc.'s cornerstone programs, Zach's Place: an emergency shelter providing for the immediate needs of homeless and runaway children. Over three decades, HHS has stood as a steadfast advocate for our mission — promoting security and stability for at-risk families, children, and individuals. We extend our gratitude to Congressman Buddy Carter for his partnership, as it not only drives positive change in Coastal Georgia communities but also plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the countless children, we at Safe Harbor Center, Inc. are privileged to serve,” said Leslie Hartman, Executive Director of Safe Harbor Center, Inc.
The Basic Center Program (BCP) helps create and strengthen community-based programs that meet the immediate needs of runaway and homeless youth under 18 years old, according to its website. In addition, BCP tries to reunite young people with their families or locate appropriate alternative placements.
BCP provides the following services:
- Up to 21 days of shelter
- Food, clothing and medical care
- Individual, group and family counseling
- Crisis Intervention
- Recreation programs
- Aftercare services for youth after they leave the shelter
Background
According to its website, Zach’s Place is a Runaway & Homeless Youth Emergency Shelter (RHY) providing for the immediate needs of homeless and runaway children and youth up to age 17 in Glynn County, Georgia. At Zach’s Place, children and youth receive safe, temporary housing, food, clothing, healthcare, counseling, and the encouragement to fulfill their potential and successfully contribute to society.
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