Detroit Phoenix Center’s YouthUp Mobile Unit will bring essential services directly to youth throughout metropolitan Detroit providing immediate assistance and preventing further crisis
Detroit Phoenix Center (DPC), a nonprofit dedicated to improving the outcomes for resilient youth in Detroit by providing housing, critical resources, wraparound support, and a safe, nurturing environment, is launching a groundbreaking innovative mobile outreach initiative designed to bring vital food, mental health resources, and other support directly to young people in high-need areas. The YouthUp Mobile Unit, focused on prevention and early intervention, will provide a critical lifeline to those who may not have access to traditional service locations. The initiative underscores DPC’s mission to create meaningful change and empower vulnerable, yet resilient, youth in their journey toward sustainability and stability.
“We can’t continue to do what we’ve always done,” said Courtney Smith, founder and CEO of Detroit Phoenix Center. “It’s important that we meet youth in need of our services where they are and the YouthUp Mobile Unit represents a transformative step forward in addressing the unique challenges faced by young people seeking critical support.”
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 30 at Detroit PAL to celebrate the launch of the YouthUp Mobile Unit. Joining Smith for the occasion were city and county officials and a host of friends, supporters and stakeholders.
The 40-foot state-of-the-art motorcoach offers youth access to essential amenities, including a shower, kitchen and food pantry, along with a rotating inventory of clothing and essential toiletries. On-the-go services also include a career center providing resources and guidance on resume building, interview preparation and information about vocational training programs. A tech equipped with laptops and mobile hotspots ensures access to digital tools and connectivity. Dedicated space is available for medical professionals to conduct health and wellness checks and a private room will also be available one-on-one counseling, therapy sessions and case management meetings. Additionally, a gaming area gives youth a space to relax and unwind and engage in social connection and friendly competition.
“Our potential to expand our services and engage with hundreds of additional youth through our YouthUp Mobile Crisis Center will be immeasurable, Smith added. “Outreach like this breaks down barriers and demonstrates Detroit Phoenix Center’s commitment to reaching out.”
Built and outfitted in Milwaukee, the mobile unit, the mobile crisis center launched a Midwest pilot tour making stops in Chicago and South Bend, Indiana distributing mental wellness resources, hygiene kits and fresh flowers to young people in high-need areas, before arriving in Detroit.
A University of Michigan analysis found that between 7,000 and 14,000 children in Detroit were estimated to have been homeless in the 2017-18 school year. Approximately 12 percent of these children were identified by Detroit public and charter schools.
By bringing services directly to youth in need, DPC aims to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help and ensure that critical support is accessible regardless of location.
The YouthUp Mobile Unit will travel to schools, community centers and areas where youth in need are known to congregate, forging relationships and providing immediate assistance. DPC also encourages community members, local businesses and policymakers to support this initiative through funding, partnerships and advocacy efforts that will help break the cycle of youth homelessness.
For more information, please visit the Detroit Phoenix Center website at www.detroitphoenixcenter.org.