Oakland County Youth Assistance expands mentoring programs for at-risk students

In a recent Public Health and Safety Committee meeting held on April 1, 2025, Oakland County officials discussed various initiatives aimed at addressing the mental health needs of children and families in the community. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to utilize funding effectively to support local programs that have emerged in response to the increased mental health challenges faced by youth, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

One of the key topics was the development of alternative mentoring programs designed to provide support to at-risk youth. These programs, such as "Bucket of Love" in Waterford and the "Wildcat Cub Club" in Oxford, aim to connect children with trusted adult mentors. Volunteers from senior community centers are trained to engage with these children, offering companionship and guidance. The mentors spend time with the kids in schools, helping to keep them engaged and motivated. The committee noted that these initiatives are crucial for fostering a supportive environment for children who may be struggling academically or emotionally.

The funding for these programs, amounting to approximately $240,000, is expected to be fully utilized by next summer. Officials expressed optimism about the impact of these funds, emphasizing the importance of prevention in their approach to youth assistance. The committee also discussed the need for ongoing fundraising efforts to sustain these programs beyond the initial funding period.

In addition to mentoring programs, the meeting addressed the distribution of emergency support funds to families in need. Approximately 316 families have received assistance through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, with an average support amount of around $500 per family. The committee acknowledged the subjective nature of emergency needs and the importance of tailoring support to individual circumstances.

As the meeting concluded, officials reiterated their commitment to addressing the mental health crisis among youth and the necessity of maintaining and expanding these vital programs. The discussions underscored the collaborative efforts of local organizations and community members in creating a supportive network for families in Oakland County. Moving forward, the committee plans to continue monitoring the effectiveness of these initiatives and explore additional funding opportunities to enhance their reach and impact.