Youth Diversion Infrastructure Project (YDIP)

Geographic Scope: Washington State (Pierce, Clark, Yakima, Walla Walla, and Spokane counties)

Overview:
Focuses on supporting young people exiting the child welfare system, juvenile detention and rehabilitation centers, behavioral health facilities, and other systems of care. Provides streamlined access to flexible funding and diversion support.

Focus Areas:

• Support for youth transitioning from systems of care
• Homelessness prevention and diversion
• Flexible funding and services
• Young people-centered approach

Target Population:

• Youth exiting child welfare system
• Youth exiting juvenile detention and rehabilitation centers
• Youth exiting behavioral health facilities
• Youth exiting other systems of care
• Particular focus on young people of color and LGBTQ+ youth

Impact Data (First Year: 2023):

• Served 218 households across service area
• 30% identified as young people of color
• Nearly 1 in 7 identified as LGBTQ+

Key Features:

• Diversion-first approach
• Youth-centered programming
• Community-based delivery
• Systems-focused work
• Coordination with child welfare, justice, and behavioral health systems

Administration: Jointly administered by Building Changes and A Way Home Washington

Funding Partner: Schultz Family Foundation, Office of Homeless Youth