Journey of Hope Kids Find Summer Fun at PRYSE Academy
Since 2014, the Journey of Hope program has provided shelter, counseling, recreation, and education to unaccompanied minors arriving in the United States. The Long-Term Foster Care program, launched in January 2022, provides a safe, stable environment for young people who require a longer stay than those served by our shelter program.
Through the program, care is provided for up to 12 teenage boys in a home-like environment, including comfortable housing, group meals, and dedicated case managers, clinicians, youth care workers, and interpreters.
Beyond caring for their basic needs, our team seeks opportunities for enrichment that allow the children in their care to create lasting memories and to explore and enjoy their temporary home in Pittsburgh.
One such opportunity, in partnership with the Alliance for Refugee Youth Support and Education (ARYSE) is PRYSE Academy (Pittsburgh Refugee Youth Summer Enrichment). PRYSE is a five-week day camp held on the University of Pittsburgh campus with children from regions across the globe, including the Middle East, West Africa, Central America, and more. Campers participate in a variety of activities including language learning, mental health exercises, community building, and creative arts.
“PRYSE is intentional about creating a positive environment,” says Eric Gibson, Journey of Hope Community Liaison, “they help kids feel welcome, whole, and uplifted.” Holy Family recognizes the importance of holistic care, and we are blessed to have partners like ARYSE to help ensure that those in our care are given the chance to thrive and experience the joys of childhood.
