Homeless and Runaway Youth Transitional Housing

The Homeless and Runaway Youth Transitional Housing project is an initiative by Mary’s Shelter to expand permanent, supportive housing opportunities for at-risk youth in the City of Reading, Pennsylvania. The project focuses on developing housing for young adults ages 16 to 22 who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability, many of whom are transitioning out of emergency shelters or unsafe living situations. Building on Mary’s Shelter’s long-standing service model, the project is designed to provide stable housing paired with comprehensive, wraparound supports that help residents work toward self-sufficiency and long-term independence.

The development included the acquisition and rehabilitation of existing multifamily buildings, which was converted into single-room occupancy and one-bedroom units with minimal renovation needs. The project created 22 permanent housing units that allow residents to stabilize, pursue education or employment, and gradually assume financial responsibility through a graduated rent structure. Residents will received move-in assistance and access to public benefits, while onsite and partner-provided services address life skills, financial literacy, employment readiness, and trauma-informed care. This approach ensures that housing is not only accessible, but also supportive of long-term success.

The project responded to a documented and critical gap in housing options for homeless and runaway youth in Berks County, where demand far exceeded available resources. Mary’s Shelter’s Youth Rapid Rehousing pilot demonstrated strong outcomes serving this population, and this project ensures continuity and expansion of those efforts as temporary funding sources sunset. By creating permanent housing targeted specifically to this age group, the development helps prevent chronic adult homelessness while strengthening the community’s overall housing continuum. The total development scope included rehabilitation, supportive services integration, and long-term program sustainability.

Stone Sherick Consulting Group’s Role

Stone Sherick Consulting Group provided development consulting services for the project, including preparation and submission of public funding applications, assistance with budgeting and feasibility analysis, and coordination of rehabilitation scope and financing requirements. SSCG supported Mary’s Shelter in securing funding and advancing the project toward implementation.