First American colleagues donated kitchen supplies to the Center for Youth in Rochester, N.Y. this holiday season. With First American’s help, the Center for Youth will replace worn cookware and restock cleaning supplies within its shelter’s kitchens and provide to youth moving into their first apartments.
“I’m lucky to be a connection to our community and share the mission of the Center with First American,” said Heather Wohaska, Center for Youth Associate Board Member and Marketing Manager at First American. “My colleagues are always tremendous supporters – from financial literacy workshops to interview clothing drives – and this year was even more special with First American coming together to help make a shelter feel like home during the holidays.”
The Center for Youth has provided emergency shelters, transitional and permanent housing and counseling for over 45 years in the Rochester community. The organization has become an ally to the LGBTQ community, providing support and advocacy so each young person can achieve their goals.
According to the Center for Youth, 1.6 million youth experience homelessness each year. Up to 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQ, yet only make up 7% of the general youth population – these numbers are disproportionately high.
“Every year, we raise critical funds to keep The Center for Youth services uninterrupted and available to young people in crisis 24/7 365 days a year. Through the incredible support of our volunteers, allies, donors, partners and staff we are able to meet these needs – and we couldn’t be more grateful!” said Jason Roberts, Director of Development, Marketing and Events at the Center.
First American is proud to continue its support of the Center for Youth in 2021 and beyond.