Caring Partners is pleased to announce that the Center for Family Services and EDGE NJ have been awarded Community Resource Development funds to enhance family and youth programming in Morris and Sussex counties.
Center for Family Services will bring Kaleidoscope, a youth-centric LGBTQ+ program to Morris and Sussex counties. Kaleidoscope offers a welcoming atmosphere where young people can find support, guidance, and a sense of community. It will offer monthly, student-led meetings in a safe, supportive environment for LGBTQ+ and allied teens to gather, socialize, organize, engage in conversation, and seek access to resources. Programming and activities are accessible to youth ages 13-18. The agency will be implementing a statewide hotline for LGBTQ+ youth and youth in Morris and Sussex counties will be eligible to utilize the hotline for support and referrals 24/7.
EDGE NJ has created the TRUE 2 U Youth Mentoring and Support Group programs, which offer identity and gender-affirming services in a safe space for transgender, LGBTQ+ youth, and their families. Services will be provided at their Pride Center and include a minimum of one hour per week of face-to-face individual mentorship time, and a weekly LGBTQ+ youth support group. Mentees served will be 13-21 years of age. EDGE NJ will also provide opportunities for additional large group recreational activities for all youth and their mentors to participate in approximately 4-6 times per year.
We look forward to bringing these exciting programs to our local communities!