Breaking the Cycle: FCA’s Commitment to Reducing Youth Homelessness on Long Island

Oct 28, 2025 | FCA Blog

Did you know that November is National Homelessness Awareness Month? It’s a time to shine a light on the realities of homelessness and inspire meaningful action to support those affected.

And did you know that when it comes to homelessness, every act of compassion counts?

Supporting runaway and homeless youth requires a united community effort. At FCA, our Residential Programs are designed to break down stigma and offer vital support to teens and young adults across Long Island who have faced trauma, rejection, and the challenges of survival. These programs provide safe, nurturing spaces for youth who have left home due to conflict, abuse, neglect, or a lack of acceptance—helping them feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Every young person’s journey is unique. Working alongside runaway and homeless youth has taught us that resilience is not just about surviving—it’s about holding onto hope and believing in the possibility of a brighter future.

FCA’s Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) programs, Nassau Haven and Walkabout offer structured, secure environments for youth in crisis:

  • Nassau Haven serves youth ages 10 to 20, providing emergency housing in a safe, confidential setting. During their short-term stay, residents receive counseling, life skills training, and support in reconnecting with family or exploring alternative housing options.
  • Walkabout offers longer-term housing for youth who cannot safely return home. It provides extended stability and guidance, helping young people build the skills and confidence needed for independent living.

Together, these programs work in tandem to foster safer outcomes and brighter futures.

As one former client shared:
“There are no words to describe how grateful I am. I attribute much of my success to the support and care I received at Nassau Haven and Walkabout. From learning independent living skills to accessing education and career resources, I wouldn’t have made it to adulthood without them.”

FCA’s unwavering commitment to reducing youth homelessness is reflected in every aspect of our residential programs. We walk alongside young people on their journey of healing and growth, helping them rebuild their strength, creativity, and sense of possibility.

It’s not an easy path—but it’s one made lighter through collaboration. Our programs meet youth where they are, tailoring services to their unique needs and aspirations. We guide them through complex systems, connect them with essential resources, advocate for their rights, and empower them to forge their own futures.

Our mission is clear: to ensure every young person has access to safety, stability, and support—regardless of their story. We create spaces where trust, dignity, and hope can flourish, even in the most challenging moments.

Latest FCA Blog

It Takes A Community: Strengthening Youth Mental Health

It Takes A Community: Strengthening Youth Mental Health

May is Mental Health Awareness Month‚ and it tends to cause me to step back and reflect on my job and‚ more than that‚ the young people I get to work with every day․ At the Family and Children's Association (FCA)‚ I have had the opportunity to meet youth where they...

read more
Alcoholism: Devious, Perplexing & Controlling

Alcoholism: Devious, Perplexing & Controlling

Alcoholism is known as “cunning, baffling and powerful” by members of Alcoholics Anonymous.  In my personal experience, it is devious, perplexing and controlling.  The disease held my life in the palm of its hand and little by little, it was squeezing the life out of...

read more
My Freedom found in recovery

My Freedom found in recovery

My journey in recovery has been one of the most profound experiences of my life - and a complete surprise as I could never have imagined something that I thought would destroy me became my greatest gift. Shame and stigma were some of the first battles I faced. They...

read more