October 22, 2019

Manchin, Capito Announce More Than $3 Million To Combat Children and Youth Homelessness and Provide Family Services in West Virginia

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $3,363,003 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to combat children and youth homelessness and help families affected by the opioid crisis in West Virginia.

“There are more than 10,500 homeless children and youth in West Virginia. This is an unfortunate and unacceptable issue we are facing. Ensuring that our children have a safe, stable and comfortable place to sleep at night is essential to their wellbeing and if they don’t have a place to sleep, they can’t learn. West Virginia also has the highest overdose rate per capita of any state in our nation, and the impacts of this epidemic can be felt in every family, every community and every part of our state. Addressing family stability is an important step in understanding and solving the opioid crisis. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for funding that helps children and families affected by the opioid crisis in West Virginia,” Senator Manchin said.

“It is critical all of West Virginia’s children – especially those who are homeless – receive the care and services they need. Getting kids off the streets and into stable living means giving these kids a chance at a better life. West Virginians always take care of their own, and providing these kids with a safe place to sleep is an important first step,” said Senator Capito. “Additionally, the opioid crisis’ influence on families across West Virginia is undeniable. By supporting services that help support healthy families, we’re helping those affected by the opioid crisis get back on track to a stabile family unit.

Individual awards are listed below:

  • $2,650,000 – Prestera Center for Mental Health Services, Inc.
  • $403,985 – West Virginia Department of Health & Human Resources
  • $160,000 – Youth Services System, Inc.
  • $149,018 – Cabell-Huntington Coalition for the Homeless