When we think of those who are or at-risk of being homeless, we normally do not think of young adults, ages 18-25. 

Yet, in Luzerne County, the number of homeless individuals in this age group is alarming and growing.

Volunteers of America has responded to this need and has partnered with county government to develop two housing facilities in the Wyoming Valley. 

One of the facilities is the Garrahan Street Residence in Hanover Township provides permanent housing.

The second facility is in downtown Wilkes-Barre and also houses the administrative offices for our Northeastern Pennsylvania services.

The second and third floors of this building are the Manna House Apartments and offer transitional housing and support services for up to eight young adults, 18-25 years old, who are homeless. 

Manna House Apartments provide safe, affordable housing for young adults who are struggling with self sufficiency.  Primary goals of the program are to assist individuals through the recovery process to achieve independence and housing permanency.  The facility offers a 24 hour/7 day a week staffing schedule. 

Each resident is assigned a case manager who coordinates services, assists in accessing community based services, provides liaison with other service providers, assists in accessing entitlements and monitors residents as they progress through their individual service plan.

Residents are also provided with a Life Skills Coach who assesses the independent living strengths of the individual; assists in developing a curriculum tailored to meet his or her needs; and provides individual instruction in areas needing development.

Once the individual plan is developed, the life skills coach then assists in the development of needed skills.  Skill areas may include the following: household management, menu planning /meal preparation, housekeeping, health, hygiene, disease prevention, money management/banking, educational opportunities first aid/CPR, fire prevention, personal safety and others.  

Individuals may be referred to the program from human services agencies, homeless shelters, street outreach programs and self referral.  Individuals must meet the HUD definition for homeless and will be required to undergo both child abuse clearances and criminal background checks.