News Summary
Knoxville’s Housing and Neighborhood Development Department is seeking community input on a proposal to allocate $1 million for supportive housing aimed at youth transitioning out of foster care. The funds would create 18 new permanent supportive housing units to address the pressing needs of these young individuals. A public meeting is scheduled for April 9, 2025, allowing both in-person and virtual participation. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback until April 15, 2025, as the city aims to incorporate community insights into this significant initiative.
Knoxville Sets the Stage for Youth Supportive Housing Development
Exciting news is coming out of the city of Knoxville! The Housing and Neighborhood Development (HND) Department is reaching out to the community for input on an important proposal to allocate $1 million for an initiative aimed at supporting young people who are transitioning out of the foster care system.
Making a Difference for Youth in Foster Care
The proposed funds would be used to develop 18 new permanent supportive housing units. This is such a vital step in addressing the needs of youth who often face challenges as they age out of the foster care system. A substantial number of these young people find themselves without stable housing, which can lead to a multitude of difficulties as they strive to establish their independence.
To kick off the discussion around this vital initiative, a public meeting is set to take place on April 9 at 6 p.m. This gathering will be held in person at the Public Works Service Center located at 3131 Morris Avenue. But wait, there’s more! For those who prefer to engage from the comfort of their homes, there’s also a virtual option to participate. Just be sure to check out KnoxvilleTN.gov/Development by noon on April 8, 2025, where the link to join the meeting will be posted.
Get Involved: Your Voice Matters!
This meeting is a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together and have their voices heard. Attendees will be encouraged to ask questions and share their thoughts on this crucial amendment. And if you plan on joining online, don’t forget to register at least 15 minutes before the webinar kicks off to ensure your spot!
In April of 2021, city officials were thrilled to find out that Knoxville would receive an impressive $4,076,859 in HOME Investment Partnerships – American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Initially, the plan allocated $2.9 million for affordable rental housing development, $1 million for supportive services, and a small amount for administration and planning. However, as needs evolve, this new proposal would redirect that $1 million originally meant for supportive services, refocusing it on creating much-needed housing for youth aging out of the foster care system.
Addressing Local Needs
This amendment is not just a whimsical decision; it is rooted in the input gathered from a local Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP). By addressing the specific needs identified through this process, Knoxville is ensuring that its funds are being directed towards effective solutions for youth homelessness.
HUD has specific requirements, and a significant amendment is necessary when a grantee seeks to undertake activities that weren’t initially laid out in the original plan. To keep the public informed, a draft of the revised plan can be accessed for review at KnoxvilleTN.gov/Development under the section labeled “Draft Plans for Public Review.” Feedback from residents is welcomed until April 15, 2025, as the city is eager to incorporate community insights into this vital project.
Ensuring Accessibility
Knoxville is dedicated to making sure that all residents have meaningful access to programs and services in line with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws. For individuals looking for accommodations to participate in the public meeting, assistance is available! Reach out to ADA Coordinator Stephanie Brewer Cook at 865-215-2034 or via email at scook@knoxvilletn.gov at least 72 business hours before the meeting.
If language is a barrier, worry not—those with limited English proficiency can request translation services through the Human Resources Department by emailing titlevi@knoxvilletn.gov or calling 865-215-3100 at least 48 hours in advance of the public meeting.
Join the Conversation!
So, mark your calendars and don’t miss this chance to contribute to an important cause that will positively impact the lives of Knoxville’s youth. Your opinion matters, and together, the community can help shape a brighter future for young individuals transitioning out of foster care.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Knoxville Launches Lifeline for the Homeless with ReLAUNCH
New Residential Development Announced in East Knoxville
Knoxville Takes Big Steps to Tackle Homelessness and Housing Woes
Knoxville Implements New Grant Program to Combat Youth Homelessness
Knox County Unveils Comprehensive Growth Plan
Knoxville Secures $500,000 Federal Grant for Lonsdale Park
Community Collaborates at Gibbs Elementary School
Knoxville Secures $1.7 Million Grant to Improve Pedestrian Access and Safety
Additional Resources
- WATE: Knoxville Considers Allocating $1 Million on Housing for Youth Aging Out of Foster Care
- WBIR: Housing Units for Foster Care Youth
- Knox TN Today: KCDC Officially Opens Supportive Housing for Veterans
- Knox News: New Liberty Place Offers Supportive Housing Services for Veterans
- Times Free Press: AIM Center Breaks Ground for Low-Income Housing
- Wikipedia: Foster Care
- Google Search: Supportive Housing for Youth
- Google Scholar: Supportive Housing Programs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Youth Homelessness
- Google News: Youth Housing Initiatives
