A pivotal initiative aimed at providing essential services to unhoused youth
LONG BEACH, Calif., September 17, 2024 – The April Parker Foundation will celebrate the grand opening of the Futures First Temporary Navigation Shelter on October 23, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 1489 Atlantic Ave. in Long Beach, California. This is the first youth transitional housing in Long Beach dedicated to providing services, resources, and shelter to impacted youths of all genders aged 18 to 30 in the city of Long Beach. As unhoused youth continue to rise in communities nationwide, the Futures First Shelter stands as a beacon of hope—providing not just immediate relief, but the long-term support and empowerment necessary to break the cycle of unhousing for future generations.
The April Parker Foundation’s Futures First Temporary Navigation Shelter will address the needs of one of Long Beach’s most at-risk groups—unhoused youth. In collaboration with Mayor Rex Richardson and the Long Beach Health Department we are committed to housing our young adults. The shelter will hold up to 24 individuals annually, offering a comprehensive range of support designed to foster self-sufficiency and break the cycle of housing instability and unemployment. By participating in the Mayor’s ‘Functional Zero’ initiative, we are dedicated to eradicating unhoused youth in Long Beach and ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to thrive.
“Every young person deserves the chance to succeed,” said April Parker, Founder and Executive Director. “Futures First is more than a shelter—it’s a support system offering a ‘Hand UP, not a handout,’ providing the housing, resources, and guidance needed for long-term stability.”
The Futures First Temporary Navigation Shelter offers a range of services designed to support youth on their journey to stability and independence. In addition to providing emergency safe and secure shelter, the program offers personalized case management to help them navigate available resources. Life skills workshops cover essential topics like budgeting, cooking, job readiness, and resume building. The shelter also provides mental health support, substance abuse counseling, and access to job placement assistance. Educational resources, including GED programs and vocational training are available alongside health services like Medi-Cal.
The Futures First Temporary Navigation Shelter also offers nutritional support by providing healthy meals and guidance on developing sustainable eating habits. Additionally, community engagement opportunities allow youth to participate in social activities, fostering connections and building a supportive network.
The grand opening will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, guest speakers, and an open house. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the facility, meet the dedicated team behind the project, and learn about the services offered to support Long Beach’s youth. Remarks will be made from April Parker, Mayor Rex Richardson, Maleka Long, and two impacted youth who will be housed in this new facility. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
The April Parker Foundation is a community-based non-profit organization that serves the historically underserved BIPOC communities in Orange and Los Angeles Counties through a range of culturally relevant, highly supportive offerings. We strive to empower disadvantaged individuals, families, veterans, and small businesses with the goal of uplifting our community as a whole.