This dream of mine has been years in the making, ever since I created Seeking Shelter Inc. Seeing the number of homeless youth in Miami-Dade County and realizing the gap in transitional programming for those aging out of the foster-care system broke my heart. It was then that I knew I had to do something to help those who were so often forgotten and neglected.

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Charlie's House will be a multi-service shelter for transition-aged youth between 16 and 24 years old. The idea is to provide a holistic solution for those who are seeking a safe, clean and supportive environment during their transitional period. This is not just a place to call home; it is a place where young adults can seek guidance and support as they navigate through the challenges of adulthood.

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The name Charlie's House for the multi-service shelter for transition-aged youth between 16 and 24 years old was inspired by my dog, Charlie. He is not just any dog; he has touched and continues to touch many lives, including those of people living on the streets and families at risk. Charlie has become more than just a pet; he has become a symbol of hope for those struggling in life and in need of guidance.

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The statistics regarding foster-care youth becoming homeless on their 18th birthday are staggering. The sheer number of people who are left without a home, job prospects, and skills to make it the world alone is scary. But Charlie's House will help change that. It will be a place where youth can learn important life skills such as budgeting, cooking and cleaning, and even interview skills. With a focus on job readiness and preparation classes, residents of Charlie's House will be well-equipped to enter the workforce and develop a career path for themselves.

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The services provided at this shelter will encompass case management, trauma-informed counseling, and medical and behavioral health screenings. The compassionate case managers will be responsible for guiding the residents through their journey of healing, while the counseling services will help with their mental health by treating any underlying trauma. Moreover, there will be medical and behavioral health screenings that ensure the residents stay healthy.

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When thinking about the name of the shelter, I couldn't think of a more fitting name than that of my amazing dog. Charlie has been a constant source of support and inspiration in my life, and I am sure that he will continue to be a constant source of support to many through Charlie's House.

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The idea behind Charlie's House is to provide a holistic solution for homeless and foster youth, who are often ignored or have gone through severe trauma. The aim is to create a space where they can feel safe, secure, and most importantly - hope. Charlie's House will become a beacon of hope for youth without a home. It will help them to take the crucial step towards self-sufficiency and build a life that they can be proud of.

 

Charlie's House will be a space of love, acceptance, and guidance. The name is fitting because Charlie has always been a symbol of hope, and Charlie's House hopes to provide the same for the youths in need. Charlie is more than just a dog in my life and to many people he meets. The name Charlie's House is more than just a label; it is a symbol of hope for the youths who will call it home. The power of animals to help struggling people is a beautiful thing, and Charlie's House will aim to provide that same support and hope to those in need.