Rising from the Ashes: The Resilient Journey of Fenix Youth Project Inc

The Need and the Struggle: Introducing Fenix Youth Project Inc.

In the heart of our society, there lies an organization, Fenix Youth Project Inc., working relentlessly to support homeless youth. Often unseen and unheard, these young souls find a beacon of hope in Fenix, an institution that believes in their potential and shelters them in their hour of need.

Navigating the Storm: The Debt Challenge
The journey of Fenix Youth Project has been anything but smooth. As it grapples with the insurmountable challenges of homelessness, an intricate web of past debts threatens its very existence. The struggle is real, yet the resolve is fiercer.

A New Dawn: Fresh Leadership, Renewed Strategies
The dark cloud of uncertainty has a silver lining of hope and resilience. Despite tumultuous times, Fenix is now under new leadership, introducing innovative strategies to navigate the sea of debt. The organization is steadfast, optimistic about the future, and armed with a new vision and a strong strategy.

Our Calling: How Can You Help?
Home is not just a roof over one's head, it's a feeling of safety, love, and belonging. Fenix Youth Project Inc. is a home to many homeless youth, and it needs your support to keep the light on. As the organization embarks on a journey to become debt-free, your generous donations can fuel this critical mission. Every penny you contribute directly impacts young lives, nudging Fenix closer to its goal.

If you've been moved by our story, we invite you to join us. Let's rise like Fenix from the ashes, stronger, brighter and more hopeful. Become part of our story today by clicking this link and making a contribution.

[Donate Now – Call to action]

Together, let's ensure that no youth sleeps on the streets anymore. Remember, a Fenix always rises - and this time, it could be with your help.

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/