Fenix Youth Project celebrates one year in new drop-in center, seeking community donations

SALISBURY, Md. – “We recently had to open up a new drop-in center because we were outgrowing the one that we were in,” Green said.

Just one year ago, the Fenix Youth Project opened the doors to its new drop-in youth center in downtown Salisbury. Executive Director Amber Green says the move allowed them to be closer to many of their community partners. “We are able to kind of be in the mix of things. As we know, the homeless population is growing. With us being in the downtown area, we’re actually more accessible to a lot of our youth clients,” Green said.

As the nonprofit looks to continue building out the drop-in center, progress could be halted.  They’ve experienced several funding cuts from both local and state agencies.

To stay afloat, Green said they must now lean on the community. “We need to make sure that we are connecting with the community, connecting with different funders and donors to let them know that we still are the only drop-in center in the tri-county area and we’re providing more services,” she said.

AmeriCorps members are also housed at the center, helping flesh out plans as the nonprofit shifts gears to focus on transitional living for local youth. “I used to be a homeless youth myself, so being able to give back to my community means a lot,” Drop-In Center Coordinator Tyshekia Waples said.

“You can’t feel normal or think that you’re normal if you’re living in a shelter with other homeless youth. So, part of the transitional piece of it is starting to teach them life skills and other things to stay on their own.”

The nonprofit is also celebrating its 10-year anniversary. Green told 47ABC there’s still much growth on the horizon for them as they continue providing more meals, programs, and services to youth at risk of homeless even in the face of adversity. “Even with the financial struggles, the one thing that’s going to keep Fenix Youth Project above and beyond is the fact that we listen to the youth and provide space for them to use their voice. That’s always been our core,” she said.

Fenix Youth Project is also starting up their $43 campaign, as 43% of the homeless population are youth. Funds will go towards food, clothing, personal care products, and more.

You can donate items to 212 W Main Street Suite #309 anytime between 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. from Tuesday- Thursday. You can also call (443)-736-7028.

The nonprofit recently launched a new service called iThrive Mobile which provides free phones to youth looking for jobs.