ICYMI: Cárdenas Presents $1 Million to New Directions for Youth to Increase Mental Health Services for At-Risk Youth
SAN FERNANDO VALLEY – Today, Congressman Tony Cárdenas (CA-29) announced $1,000,000 in Community Project Funding to New Directions for Youth (NDY), to expand mental health services for at-risk youth. This investment will allow NDY to renovate their facility by adding an elevator for ADA access, which will quadruple the number of ADA accessible counseling/therapy rooms. It will also drastically increase NDY’s capacity to provide youth and families with mental health therapy and counseling, add more anger management workshops, expand life skills training, and provide resources to prevent homelessness. NDY’s goal through this project is to improve the quality of life for low-income, underserved youth and their families throughout Los Angeles County’s San Fernando Valley.
“The work that NDY does is extremely important for at-risk youth who are struggling to overcome trauma, community violence, substance abuse, gang involvement, academic failure, unemployment, and medical issues,” said Congressman Cárdenas. “This project will have lasting impacts on future generations and teach youth key life lessons. As someone who grew up in a working-class community, I understand the crucial roles organizations like NDY play in our community.”
“Congressman Cardenas is an inspiration for youth at NDY to reach their highest potential through his positive example. Role models like him can make a significant impact on young minds and motivate them to learn and grow,” said Monica Austin-Jackson, J.D. Executive Director of New Directions for Youth.
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