By JEFF STITT
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, McKeesport-based nonprofit Auberle has expanded services to meet the needs of thousands of individuals, children and families throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania.
In addition to continuing to provide essential services like finding homes for foster children, housing the homeless and supporting and protecting youths in residential care, Auberle’s programs, of which there are more than 20, have mobilized to ensure clients have what they need.
Learning at home
Auberle’s Learning Innovation coordinator created STEAM and literacy kits tailored for different age groups from toddler through high school to provide youths with creative and fun opportunities for at-home learning.
Many of the youths served by Auberle do not have access to iPads and laptops, so these kits are especially essential. Kits are being delivered by Auberle and Ward Home staff to Auberle foster families, Auberle’s four residential care facilities and Auberle’s Family Emergency Shelter.
“The school piece is the biggest right now,” Ward Home Program Director Heather Samuel said. “We are trying to keep our young people’s minds stimulated. The creativity of our staff is above and beyond. “STEAM Kits are being distributed to all our residential youth this week. We want to know how we can make this a positive experience for them.”
Staying connected with at-risk young people
Despite having to temporarily close its physical location in downtown Pittsburgh, Auberle’s 412 Youth Zone has continued to serve young people from throughout the area who are aging out of foster care and at risk of homelessness by providing a daily lineup of programming through Facebook Live videos, including self-care check-ins, guided meditation, fitness tutorials, book club discussions and workshops on cooking, art, music and writing.
Youth Zone participants have 24-hour access to their assigned youth coaches and therapists who continue to provide critical resources.
Mental health and self care
Auberle’s Behavioral Health program continues to provide therapy, drug and alcohol counseling, psychiatric services and school-based therapy via telehealth platforms and is providing extra resources to those especially struggling with mental health and drug and alcohol issues during the crisis. Behavioral health staff will be distributing art therapy kits to youth and families.
Auberle and Ward Home’s My Best Self program coordinator Mia Meredith created self-care kits to enable youths to continue practicing self-care and managing special hair care needs while reminding them “to be the best version of themselves” even while confined to their homes. Kits are being delivered to all program participants, as well as any out-of-home foster youths living in congregate care facilities, shelters and independent living throughout Allegheny County.
“My Best Self is so important right now,” Meredith said. “Some of our older youth are not working right now. They cannot get the proper hair grooming supplies they need.”
The program is in need of supplies as most purchases typically made through Amazon are on back order, Meredith said, adding that the My Best Self program is making people feel good during an uneasy time.
“A foster grandmother was so excited about My Best Self and that her grandson was getting supplies,” Mia said. “We talked on the phone for so long. It made me happy and gave me a more in-depth passion for what I do.”
Auberle often works with area beauty parlors, barber shops and beauty supply stores to find supplies for the programs. Those who may be able to help are asked to call 412-673-5856, extension 1705, or email [email protected].
Auberle’s SNAP Program, which stands for “Stop Now and Plan” has continued to provide children and families with tools to manage behavioral and anger issues via virtual video sessions and online access to workbooks.
Auberle’s Employment Institute is providing clients with leads on employment opportunities at companies that have increased hiring during the crisis.
To donate to Auberle, visit secure.donorpro.com/auberle-donation.