In a recent government meeting, representatives from United Action for Youth (UAY) provided a critical update on their Transitional Living Program, highlighting a significant funding loss that threatens their ability to support homeless youth in Johnson County. Talia Meidlinger, UAY's Executive Director, and Olantha Fields, the runaway and homeless youth service coordinator, detailed the challenges posed by the loss of federal funding, which they had relied on for nearly 25 years.

The statistics presented were alarming: 21% of unhoused individuals in Johnson County are under 18, with an additional 10% aged 18 to 24. The program serves a demographic that is particularly vulnerable to human trafficking and substance abuse, emphasizing the urgent need for continued support. The representatives noted that the recent funding round was the most competitive they had ever encountered, with only one out of eleven applications in their region being funded. Despite scoring a 95.76—historically a strong score—their application fell short of the threshold required for funding.

Meidlinger explained that the Transitional Living Program not only provides housing but also incorporates life skills training, mental health assessments, and independent living plans. The program has successfully transitioned 90% of its participants into stable housing, demonstrating its effectiveness in addressing the needs of at-risk youth.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of youth homelessness, with Meidlinger stressing that these young individuals are not just statistics; they are integral members of the community. The representatives called for immediate financial support, estimating a need for $250,000 to maintain and expand their services. They have initiated a fundraising campaign and received some initial grants, but significant gaps remain.

Supervisors expressed their gratitude for UAY's work and acknowledged the importance of addressing youth homelessness as a community responsibility. They discussed potential options for additional funding and emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to support these vulnerable populations.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the situation was clear: without immediate action and funding, the future of the Transitional Living Program—and the youth it serves—remains uncertain.