The future prospects of young women facing the critical transition from youth care to independent adulthood just got a significant boost. San Mar Family & Community Services, Boonesboro, MD, known for its dedicated community outreach, received a substantial financial push for a transformative project on its Boonsboro campus. The initiative received a generous $1 million grant from the Nora Roberts Foundation, marking a significant milestone in the project’s funding.
Nora Roberts is an American author of over 225 romance novels.
This project, which was unveiled last fall as a nearly $6 million venture, involves creating transitional housing repurposing an old office building—originally an orphanage—into 15 modern apartments. These units are designed to provide stable housing for women aged 18 to 24, who are navigating the challenging shift out of foster care.
But the support doesn’t stop at housing. San Mar plans to revamp other buildings on the campus to host essential services such as case management and mental health support, aiming to equip these young women with the tools they need to succeed in their newfound independence. The comprehensive approach ensures they not only have a roof over their heads but also access to critical life skills training and a supportive community network.
The urgency of this project is underscored by troubling statistics from Washington County, where the rate of ‘disconnected youth’—those neither employed nor in education—is 50% higher than the statewide average. These young individuals, particularly those exiting foster or group care, face a heightened risk of homelessness and related social challenges.
In a compelling presentation to the Washington County Commissioners, San Mar CEO Keith Fanjoy emphasized the critical need for such a project. He highlighted how the campus’s underutilized buildings could be repurposed to prevent these vulnerable young women from slipping through the cracks of society.
In addition to the foundation’s grant, the project received further support with the county commissioners agreeing to seek an $800,000 federal Community Development Block Grant. This funding will catalyze the renovation efforts, enabling San Mar to create a safe, nurturing environment for these young women at a pivotal time in their lives.
This initiative is more than just a building renovation; it’s about laying a foundation for futures filled with potential. It represents a community coming together to lift up its younger members, providing them not just with housing, but a place to call home and a stepping stone to a successful, independent life.
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Gary Fleisher is a renowned blogger, consultant, and commentator on construction and housing trends, known for his insightful analysis of the industry.
