For young parents aging out of foster care, the future can often feel uncertain. Where will they live? How will they provide for their children? Grace House is Sasha Bruce Youthwork’s answer – a place of hope, stability, and new beginnings. This October, we proudly opened the doors to Grace House, a residential independent living program designed specifically for pregnant and parenting youth, ages 18–20, and their children.
Located at Wayne Place Northeast, Grace House provides a safe and supportive environment where young families can thrive. The building itself, a recently renovated apartment building, now houses six beautifully furnished two-bedroom apartments, each designed to provide a comfortable and nurturing environment. Imagine stepping into a bright, airy living room, complete with a cozy sofa and a play area for children. Each apartment also boasts a fully equipped kitchen, ready for family meals, and private bedrooms for parents and their little ones.
But turning these apartments into true homes required more than just furniture—it required the dedication and heart of our incredible volunteers. In September, during Project Home, volunteers came together over two weekends to transform Grace House’s empty apartments into warm, welcoming spaces. Volunteers unfolded brand-new cribs, their hands working quickly to assemble a safe and comfortable space for tiny newborns. Others scrubbed countertops until they gleamed, while some added the finishing touches – colorful artwork on the walls, soft blankets on the beds – transforming empty spaces into welcoming homes.
“It was so rewarding to be a part of creating a warm and welcoming space for these young families,” shared volunteer Sarah Miller. “Knowing that we helped make a difference in their lives is truly special.”
These efforts were part of a larger vision guided by Vernell Payton, Grace House’s dedicated Program Manager. Vernell is deeply passionate about empowering young parents to build stable futures. Along with a committed team of case managers, youth engagement specialists, and parenting success staff, Vernell ensures that Grace House is not just a place to live but a place to grow. Residents receive 24/7 support as they develop essential life skills, strengthen family bonds, and work toward independence. For example, residents participate in workshops on budgeting, healthy meal planning, and child development. Case managers provide one-on-one support with accessing healthcare, finding employment, and navigating the complexities of childcare.
The opening of Grace House marks an important milestone in our mission to ensure that homelessness among youth is rare, brief, and non-recurring. For young parents who have faced so much instability, Grace House offers structure, support, and hope as they take confident steps toward building a brighter future for themselves and their children.
None of this would have been possible without the kindness and dedication of our volunteers and supporters. Their hard work has created more than just furnished apartments—they’ve helped build homes where young families can feel safe, loved, and supported.
As we welcome the first families to Grace House, we are reminded of the power of community. Together, we are making sure that every young person and their child has the opportunity to thrive.
