Homeless + Foster Youth May Qualify to File Directly with the IRS

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released a new pilot, Direct File, to allow people to file their taxes directly and virtually with the IRS at no cost. This pilot only supports simple tax needs, including the Earned Income Tax Credit.

Qualifications for Direct File

At this time, the pilot has certain limitations as to who can file directly with the IRS. Individuals must meet the following qualifications:

• Be filing in one of 12 states (AZ, CA, FL, MA, NV, NH, NY, SD, TN, TX, WA, WY)

• Have a certain form of ID

  • A Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for yourself and any spouse or dependents you claim

  • If applicable, an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN) for dependents you claim

  • A current driver’s license, state identification, passport, or passport card

• Have a certain type of income

  • Income from an employer (Form W-2)

  • Unemployment compensation (Form 1099-G)

  • Social Security benefits (Form SSA-1099)

  • $1500 or less in interest income or US savings bonds or Treasury obligations (Form 1099-INT, boxes 1 and 3)

To learn more about Direct File and see if you qualify, visit directfile.irs.gov.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for Homeless + Foster Youth

This is the third year Qualified Homeless and Qualified Former Foster Youth are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit. At least 20% of eligible people for the EITC don’t claim this benefit each year – likely because they are unaware they qualify.

• Qualified homeless youth are individuals who certify that they are unaccompanied youth who are or are at risk of homelessness, and are self-supporting.

• Qualified former foster youth are individuals who, between the ages of 14 and 17, were in foster care and provided consent for the entity or entities who administered the foster care program to disclose information related to their status as a former foster youth.

Empowering Homeless Youth: Fenix Youth Project Announces Partnership with The Wellness Center of Maryland

Fenix Youth Project is excited to unveil a new partnership with The Wellness Center of Maryland, led by CEO Naryah Miles LCSW-C, LICSW, CCTP. This dynamic collaboration aims to provide crucial mental health services to homeless youth within our community.

At Fenix Youth Project's Arts & Media Drop-In Center, young individuals will now have access to free 1:1 counseling sessions, courtesy of The Wellness Center of Maryland. Starting in April, licensed counselors will be available during designated homeless youth drop-in hours on Fridays. This initiative is open to any person between the ages of 12 to 24, offering them the opportunity to book a session and meet with a counselor at absolutely no cost and without any obligations.

The Wellness Center of Maryland is renowned for its expertise in Mood Disorders and Complex Trauma. This partnership is a proactive response to the urgent need for mental health support among vulnerable populations, particularly those experiencing homelessness. The goal is to ensure access to care within a safe and creative environment.

Young people will be able to benefit from one free counseling session per month at Fenix Youth Project. In cases where additional sessions are required, the Fenix Youth Project will seamlessly facilitate a warm handoff to The Wellness Center of Maryland.

Amber Green, Executive Director at Fenix Youth Project, shared her thoughts on the collaboration, stating: "Our mission at Fenix Youth Project has always been to provide holistic support to young people, nurturing their creativity and well-being. Partnering with The Wellness Center of Maryland allows us to expand our services to address the crucial mental health needs of homeless youth in our community. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in their lives."

Naryah Miles, CEO of The Wellness Center of Maryland, also expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, saying: "We are excited to bring our specialized counseling services to the Arts & Media Drop-In Center at Fenix Youth Project. Our goal is to create a supportive environment where young people can explore their mental health and receive the care they deserve."

To book a counseling session or learn more about this partnership, please contact Fenix Youth Project Arts & Media Center at 443-736-7028 or visit https://fenixyouthproject.org/

Helping Youth Secure Their Futures with Transportation

Helping Youth Secure Their Futures with Transportation

In today's fast-paced world, landing a job can be a challenging endeavor, especially for our youth who are striving to establish themselves in the professional arena. The Fenix Youth Project has always been dedicated to nurturing the potential of young individuals and empowering them to achieve their dreams. However, there is a growing concern that some of our most committed youth are facing unnecessary hurdles in their journey toward a better future. The frustration mounts as they repeatedly miss out on crucial job interviews due to the lack of adequate transportation.

The Transportation Barrier

Imagine being an ambitious young person who has diligently prepared for a job interview that could be your ticket to financial stability and independence. You've polished your resume, practiced your interview skills, and are ready to put your best foot forward. But there's a problem – you can't get to the interview because you lack reliable transportation.

This is an unfortunate reality for some of the youth involved in the Fenix Youth Project. Despite their passion, determination, and enthusiasm to secure a job, they often find themselves trapped by the transportation barrier. They are unable to access crucial opportunities that could change the course of their lives simply because they cannot get to the places they need to be.

The Call to Action

We cannot stand by and watch as our committed youth continue to face these unnecessary obstacles. It's time for us to come together as a community and bridge the transportation gap that is hindering their progress.

We are excited to introduce a new initiative – the "Rideshare Volunteers for Fenix Youth Project." We are seeking compassionate individuals who are willing to donate their time and resources to ensure that our youth can access the opportunities they deserve. By signing up as a volunteer, you can make a significant difference in the lives of these young individuals and help them secure their futures.

How Can You Help?

Becoming a Rideshare Volunteer is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to the Fenix Youth Project. Your commitment can mean the world to a young person who is eager to step into the workforce and build a better life. Here's how you can get involved:

• Sign Up: Contact TY at ty@fenixyouthproject.org or (443) 736-7028 to express your interest in becoming a Rideshare Volunteer. You'll receive all the necessary information and guidance to get started.

• Provide Rides: Once you've signed up, you'll be matched with youth in need of transportation to important appointments and interviews. Your willingness to offer rides can be a game-changer for them.

• Spread the Word: Share this initiative with your friends, family, and social networks to encourage more volunteers to join us in supporting our youth.

Our youth are the future, and we cannot afford to let them miss out on opportunities that can set them on the path to success. By becoming a Rideshare Volunteer for Fenix Youth Project, you can play a vital role in breaking down the transportation barrier that is holding our youth back. Let's come together as a community, extend a helping hand, and empower these young individuals to reach their full potential. Your support can make all the difference.

Don't hesitate – reach out to TY at ty@fenixyouthproject.org or (443) 736-7028 today and be a part of this transformative journey. Together, we can ensure that every youth has the chance to secure their future.