Ben Swart’s Post

Did you know? 60% of Colorado child care providers report they don’t know where to find funding resources. The Colorado Department of Early Childhood conducted the Colorado Child Care Facility Needs Assessment to uncover challenges and opportunities in expanding early childhood education. The findings highlight two key needs: ✔️ Building stronger community partnerships ✔️ Creating diverse, accessible funding strategies Addressing these gaps is essential to ensuring every child in Colorado has access to quality care. Dive into the full report to learn how we can drive meaningful change together.

A concerning report from the Association of Directors of Children's Services has shed light on a critical shortage of suitable accommodation for children in need of homes, particularly those with complex needs. The dire situation has resulted in vulnerable children being placed miles away from their families and support systems, exacerbating an already challenging circumstance. At Supported Living Gateway, we recognise the urgency of this issue and its profound impact on the well-being of these children. We are actively collaborating with providers across the UK to address this shortage and provide safe, nurturing homes in proximity to the children's loved ones. By working together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these vulnerable children. https://lnkd.in/eAYVHRnG

It's here! Introducing the newest edition of our Futures Institute community safety evidence guide. Streetlights. Housing. Child care. Youth programs. CVI. It's all in there --- and it's a roadmap for how policymakers everywhere could build real safety for all people. https://lnkd.in/gv2s5m8t

We will have eight families this year move into a home they own, not rent. These are first time, often first generation, homeowners. Eight families. Over 20 children. Children who will grow up thinking owning a home is normal, not some pipe dream. Come join us as we move toward our goal of adding 300 engaged home owners in North Chicago to create the tipping point in community revitalization. https://lnkd.in/grGAQBbm

The UK government has introduced a landmark strategy, "Keeping Children Safe, Helping Families Thrive” This new movement, emphasises the importance of child protection and family support systems. The initiative focuses on creating safe environments for children, preventing abuse and neglect, and providing resources for families to promote their well-being. Key components include community involvement, access to healthcare and education, and supportive services that empower families. The ultimate goal is to ensure that children can grow up in nurturing and stable homes, fostering their development and helping families lead fulfilling lives. Let’s see how this looks in practice… https://lnkd.in/ezyW-ZEi

The findings of Dr. Charelsworth's 'Don't Look Away' report are staggering, not for the faint of heart, and something everyone must see. It's true, we mustn't look away at this moment where we need to dig deep and radicalize the historically broken foster care system. Minster Lore's response to the report, promising to work cross-ministerially to create a strategic and aligned plan is formidable. Including Housing in this process will be critical to ensuring the long-term safety and security of youth in care. "Supporting child and youth well-being requires an all-of-government approach. It requires working together with community partners, First Nations and Indigenous communities. We must do things differently and are committing today to a new vision for child well-being that focuses on prevention, care and a new way of thinking," said Grace Lore, Minister of Children and Family Development. https://lnkd.in/g-_fyvit https://lnkd.in/gSDahY3r

Thanks to your support, Nazareth Housing’s Housing Stability Support Program (HSSP) continues to keep the individuals and families we serve housed, strengthen neighborhoods, and address housing and homelessness disparities. Through case management, HSSP prevents evictions; connects families to financial empowerment resources; enrolls clients in benefits like SNAP, Cash Assistance, and Medicaid; and provides vital support amid growing housing challenges. With the end of eviction moratoriums, ERAP funding, and enhanced SNAP benefits, these services are more critical than ever. This year's highlights include: 👏 1,033 individuals were enrolled in benefit programs such as the Senior Citizen Rent  Increase Exemption (SCRIE), Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE), and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) 👏 624 households on the verge of eviction successfully retained their housing Our programs are dedicated to helping low-income New Yorkers build futures filled with hope and opportunity. Every contribution, regardless of size, enables us to address the crises that individuals face and support them through the highs and lows of financial strain. With your gift, we can make an even greater impact. 🔗 Visit https://lnkd.in/eRQthBZd to make a gift today #Homelessnessprevention #CommunityImpact

Why does Your Own Place exist? The answer to this question is as prevalent now as when we were founded in 2013. Your Own Place was borne from recognising that many people struggle to navigate the complex challenges of housing, finance, and tenancy sustainment. The increasing cost of living and strain on support services means that more people than ever are facing hardship and homelessness. Our workshops build financial literacy, tenancy knowledge, and life skills by promoting resilience and empowering individuals to find their own solutions. By addressing both the immediate tenancy challenges and long-term social mobility issues, it is possible to prevent homelessness and ensure everyone has the opportunity for a safe and secure home. Find out more about our service offers on our website - https://lnkd.in/e4mp6tcM

🌟 Building Bridges through Service 🌟 "In the economy of life, those who give more than they take hold the true riches. Service builds bridges where self-interest builds barriers." This profound statement reminds us of the immense power and value found in selflessness. As we navigate through our daily lives, it's important to remember that our acts of kindness and service not only enrich the lives of others but also deepen our own experiences and connections. By choosing to serve rather than solely seeking to gain, we create a network of support and compassion that transcends ordinary transactions. These bridges of service foster communities, strengthen bonds, and promote mutual growth and understanding. Let’s think about how we can be bridge-builders in our communities. What actions can you take this week to serve others and create connections that uplift and unite? 🌉 Share your ideas or stories about how serving has enriched your life or the lives of others around you. Let’s inspire a wave of generosity and unity! #ServiceOverSelf #TrueRiches #BuildBridges #DrBradMD

✨Starting January 1, 2025, I look forward to serving Arizona on various realms as a continued advocate. Advocacy in politics plays a crucial role in addressing the intersection of notary laws, elderly abuse, homelessness, and human rights, highlighting the need for comprehensive reforms to protect vulnerable populations. Notary laws, for example, must be strengthened to prevent exploitation in the signing of documents, particularly in cases involving elderly individuals who may be at risk of financial abuse or manipulation. Elder abuse, whether physical, emotional, or financial, demands urgent attention through stricter legal frameworks, better oversight, and accessible support systems. Additionally, homelessness is a systemic issue that requires coordinated efforts across political, social, and economic sectors to ensure that affordable housing, healthcare, and legal protections are available to those in need. By championing these causes within the political sphere, advocates can push for policies that safeguard human rights, uphold dignity, and promote justice for the most marginalized groups in society. ⭐🙏🏽