FULTON – Fulton Mayor Jim Rice joined community members and representatives from Oswego County Opportunities (OCO) Crisis and Development program at Bullhead Point in Fulton to “Shine a Light” and raise awareness of the experiences of runaway and homeless youth in Oswego County.
Since 2001, November has been recognized as National Runaway Prevention Month. This year, November was designated as HOPE (Youth Homelessness, Outreach, Prevention, and Education) Month. Throughout the month OCO’s Crisis and Development program hosted several events and activities to raise awareness and spotlight the many resources and programs available to support youth in crisis in Oswego County. The purpose of the “Shine the Light” event was to illuminate the challenges that runaway and homeless youth face every day. Staff of the OCO Crisis and Development program greeted community members and distributed information regarding homelessness and how they can assist OCO in aiding runaway and homeless youth.
“HOPE Month is a nationally recognized effort of the National Runaway Safeline,” said OCO Runaway and Homeless Youth Advocate for the Fulton School District Ashley Maynard. “It is a statewide awareness campaign to address, prevent, and end youth homelessness and we’re proud to be a part of it.”
This month OCO is collaborating with businesses, city officials, and community services throughout Oswego County to bring awareness of the struggles many youths and families face when experiencing homelessness.
“It’s time to shine a light on the challenges faced by runaway and homeless youth and to work together towards solutions,” said Fulton Mayor Jim Rice. “Every year, hundreds of thousands of young people run away or are pushed out of their homes, often fleeing abuse, neglect, or family conflict. These youth face unimaginable risks, including homelessness, hunger and exploitation. But their stories don’t have to end this way. As a community, we have the power to help prevent these crises by promoting understanding, offering resources and showing compassion. I encourage everyone to learn more about the issues, support local organizations that provide services to at-risk youth, and help spread awareness of these services. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of young people, helping them not only to survive but to thrive.”
OCO’s Crisis and Development Program provides services such as its Youth Emergency Shelter (YES!), Street Outreach, and RHY (Runaway, Homeless Youth/Families. Last year these programs served 422 youths throughout Oswego County.
“We appreciate the support we’ve received from Mayor Rice, area businesses and the caring community members that joined us for our ‘Shine a Light’ event. They’re involvement with our programs and is crucial to creating safe, empowering spaces and improving the quality of life for young people,” added Maynard.
For more information on OCO’s Crisis and Development program and the services it offers visit oco.org.
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