17 minute read
Addressing the Housing Crisis in Kate Dillon, designer
Union Mission client Spencer Leon Reed, left, speaks with Frank Yaniga, center, who got back on his feet with help from Union Mission and its Executive Director, Dan Carney. Image by Joshua Franzos for The Pittsburgh Foundation © 2020.
By Kitty Julian, director of Communications, The Pittsburgh Foundation, which is affiliated with The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County.
Staff at The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County knew that a lack of emergency shelter beds was a significant issue, but it wasn’t until they began checking in with nonprofits and community advocates that the full scope of the problem became clear.
“We heard over and over from nonprofit leaders that, if we wanted to improve conditions for the most vulnerable county residents, we had to invest in efforts to address homelessness and housing insecurity,” says CFWC Executive Director Phil Koch. “People without housing are clearly the most vulnerable and it hit us like a lightning bolt that we aren’t doing enough to help them.” Though the county has a population of 365,000, it has only 69 emergency shelter beds available, making it the poorest performing county of its size in providing shelter options.
And since the available beds are designated for men, women and families, the situation is even more dire for youth facing homelessness. Pennsylvania’s Education Children & Youth Experiencing Homelessness program estimates that there are about 410 teens in Westmoreland County who don’t have a place to live. That need far outpaces beds at the handful of group homes that provide youth shelter. Philadelphia-based, Bridge2Home, which helps young people find shelter with family or friends, found that eight young people in Westmoreland county were referred to the program in 2019, but only three host families were available that year.
CFWC made its largest grant, $40,000, in 2019, to Latrobe-based Union Mission, which provides emergency shelter and support services to men facing homelessness. CFWC has also encouraged donors to support Union Mission through their donor-advised funds. Since 2017, the Foundation and its donors have awarded $161,500 to the Mission.
According to its Executive Director Dan Carney, homelessness occurs when natural supports break down. These are people and institutions such as family and friends, school or workplace, that allow people to remain successful. When difficult circumstances, such as divorce, health issues or job loss happen at once, the safety net of natural supports can unravel.
“When you look at the data, you see that 97% of people with addictions are housed, 88% of people with mental health issues are housed. But if a person wears out his welcome, it’s not the substance abuse that results in homelessness. It’s when people have exhausted their natural support systems that homelessness occurs,” says Carney.
That’s what happened to Frank Yaniga, 57, of Westmoreland County. Six years ago, he was a successful information technology professional working full-time on government contracts in Washington, DC. With a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology, he made a six-figure salary and traveled the world for his job. When that contract ended in 2014, rather than looking for his next IT assignment, Yaniga decided to move back to western Pennsylvania to care for his aging parents.
That decision changed everything.
His parents, then in their 70s and 80s, were both recovering alcoholics. While neither had taken a drink in decades, their relationship was contentious, just as it had been when Yaniga first left home in his early 20s. “I couldn’t believe that all those years of therapy hadn’t led them to forgiveness, but to animosity,” Yaniga says. The situation, coupled with failed personal relationships, plunged him into hopelessness and he resolved to end his life. He gave away everything he owned.
“I felt that I was a failure and that everything was my fault. I traveled into the wilderness with no possessions or sustenance. My intention was to die in the middle of nowhere, with no traces other than my bones left behind,” Yaniga says.
By the grace of God, as Yaniga tells it, he was discovered collapsed on the roadside by a local priest who connected him to mental health services. Those providers connected him to human services. After months in residential treatment, Yaniga was ready to come home and reestablish his life, but he discovered how few options there are for people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity in rural Pennsylvania.
One of the few shelters is Union Mission, which provided him with two weeks of emergency shelter and then temporary supportive housing to help him establish a stable and self-sufficient home life. The Mission also provides security deposits and other short-term financial supports, ongoing housing subsidies and case management services to help people transition as quickly as possible from homelessness to permanent housing. The nonprofit also offers permanent supportive housing for people who, because of significant mental and physical illness and substance abuse, have experienced more than a year of homelessness over a three-year period.
“We’re here to provide whatever they need and to help them learn self-sufficiency while in their own homes. This allows people to live as normally as you or me in an environment that is theirs, where they can practice life skills while they are learning them,” says Carney.
Union Mission has taken a more active role addressing homelessness and housing insecurity in the county and, with CFWC, has resurrected the Westmoreland Commission on Housing, which brings together stakeholders to plan and coordinate services. The two organizations are advocating with the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania and the Blackburn Center, both based in Greensburg, for a county-wide scan of how well human service providers are meeting residents’ basic needs.
Carney also chairs the Coordinated Entry Committee of One by One, a 20-county coalition of housing and homeless stakeholders. The work of the committee is to develop a coordinated community-based process of identifying needs and building an integrated system of housing and services that addresses those needs.
“CFWC has been a good connector, getting us out of our silos to understand needs as broadly as possible, and collaborating with other organizations to have a better, strategic impact,” says Carney.
As a result of the collaboration, advocates are now working directly with the Housing Authority of Westmoreland County, fundraising together and sharing management responsibilities for a new shelter that the county is building on property donated by Union Mission.
This combination of practical collaboration and intense, one-on-one case management works exceptionally well: Union Mission sees only 8% of its clients return to homelessness, as compared with the national average of 44%.
Frank Yaniga is among those success stories. Since 2016, he has been working full-time in IT. He’s worked hard to reconnect with loved ones. Yaniga also spends summers and weekends restoring his grandparents’ homestead in rural Crawford County.
“I’m out on the property as soon as the sun rises and I stay out there working until the sun sets,” he says. “Just being out there in a relationship with nature and God and remembering my grandparents is the best therapy of any I’ve done.”
Here are a few of our most needed items at the shelter. If you're able to help the dogs, cats and rabbits we would be so appreciative!!
Looking for a way to help but aren’t able to volunteer?
Donate!
Dogs • Merrick or Fromm dog food • Chicken free dog food • Soft dog treats (made in US) • Easy Walk harness • Margingale no clip collars • 6ft leashes (non retractable) • Adaptil difuser or refills • Advantix flea treatment • Advantage Flea treatment • Benebone dental dog chew toys • Nylabone chew toys • Pill pockets • Worm X brand dewormer • Capstar flea tablets • Spray cheese (stuffing for kongs) • Puppy food
Cats • Clumping cat litter • Dry cat food • Canned cat food • Kitten food • Cat treats • Cat scratchers
Rabbits • Natural pine bedding • Rabbit pellet food • Kale, carrots, apples • Hay • Rabbit treats and chews
Facility Care: • Simple green cleaner • OdoBan disinfectant • Laundry detergent • Bleach • Rubber gloves – large • 256 disinfectant and deoderizer • Garbage bags – 13 and 33 gallon • Paper towels • Toilet paper • Buckeye watchdog cleaner • Handsoap • Laundry detergent • Zip lock bags (regular and large size)
Office Supplies and Misc. • Toner cartridge –
Cannon Image
Class D530 • Toner cartridge –
Brother HL-4570CDW • White copy paper • Card stock in white • Address labels – 1x2 5/8 inch • Post it notes • Manila file folders • White out tape
For our farm sanctuary • Meal worms • Ivermectin dewormer • Vetericyn wound spray • Alfalfa cubes • Fresh vegetables • Fresh fruits
Spay. Neuter. Adopt. Save a Life. Be a Voice. animalfriendssanctuary.org
by Carlin Johns, Senior and Staff Writer at the High Post Newspaper at Greater Latrobe High School GREATER LATROBE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL ONCE AN ICECAT: ALWAYS AN ICECAT
The Latrobe Hockey Team of the 2019-2020 season is reminiscent of state-winning teams of 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2013. The culture of the Greater Latrobe hockey team runs deep. In fact, three of the current members of the coaching staff know what it feels like to be a tough player on a winning team. Jeff Rossi and Tyler Baloh along with Josh Singley each played on championship teams and brought confidence, playmanship, and insight to a younger generation. Current head coach Josh Werner adds his own dimension and vision.
The senior class of hockey players have been playing together since middle school. In sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth grade, they made it to the championship game every year, but finally closing the deal and winning the championship in eighth grade.
“Winning the championship game in middle school made me excited to continue to play in high school solely for the possibility of being able to go to the Pens Cup game or even to states,” said Jarred Stein.
This year’s seniors are definitely something to boast about. Greg Irons, Cole Ferri, and Lane Ruffner were all named PIHL Senior Player Spotlights of the Week. Ruffner and Ferri were also honored with Player of the Month during this season due to their outstanding game play. Greg Irons, Cole Ferri, Jarred Stein, Lane Ruffner, Darick Hrytanski, and Alex Walker were also able to showcase their talent in a hand-picked group of players selected by the PIHL.
With only having lost 2 games, the Icecats secured first place in ranking for both, all teams and in Western PA AA. Coach Werner is very confident in his players.
“We have to continue to bring our best game each night, continuing to be consistent and play hard all three periods. If we bring all of that to the game, I think it will put us in the spot we want to be going into the postseason,” said Werner.
The Wildcats have four consistent lines of players, containing numerous returning players including this year’s 10 seniors: Lane Ruffner, Jarred Stein, Cole Ferri, Greg Irons, JS Florek, Josh Martino, Ean Lamonlinara, Nick Byrd, Darick Hrytanski, and Colten McCutcheon but not neglecting the help received from this year’s five freshman. They have all contributed to the varsity team with much combined playing time.
With the closing of the 2019- 2020 season, top point leaders on the ice are Cole Ferri (A) and Alex Walker (A). Ferri contributed 46 pts and Walker followed with 41 pts. “Walker and Ferri add a different dynamic to the team,” added Coach Werner. “Walker is more of a playmaker while Ferri is more of a goal scorer, they balance each other out.”
As a team, the boys have an average of 6.00 goals per game while goalies Vinny Amatucci and Greg Irons have a combined save percentage of .962% and an average of 1.47 for goals against.
The Latrobe Hockey Team has a one of a kind chemistry that is noticeable on and off the ice.
As the boys progressed in their hockey careers, they carried on some traditions left by players in the past. Blake Rossi, JT Schmizzi, and Cole Novak stumbled upon festive holiday suits and decided that it would be the Icecats signature look. When the boys walk through the halls in suits with deer emblems and snowflakes, the hockey team is dressed to play.
“I love wearing my reindeer Christmas suit to school. I love all the compliments the team and I receive when we wear them,” said Greg Irons.
In time off from their busy hockey schedule, you can always find them together. The hanging out after a late-night Thursday game at Nevin usually resulted in a sleepover, yet students always see the boys walk into school the next day in a pack to make the 7:30am bell.
“I love to go to Lamo’s house after games to hang out and play cards,” said Jarred Stein.
“The chemistry with this team is the best we had in my six years of coaching at Latrobe. The communication is great on and off the ice, they do everything together. They have always been all in for the team and for each other,” said Werner.
Fun by Anna Weltz, Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau is Springing Up in Your Backyard!
Photo credit - Laurel Highlands
Visitors Bureau
In Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, we are so fortunate to enjoy four beautiful seasons that provide us with a bevy of things to do and see. Visitors travel from near and far to stay, play, relax, and unwind in our backyard. But if you’re lucky enough to call the Laurel Highlands your home, when was the last time you took off on an adventure close to home?
This spring, take some time to get out and explore or reacquaint yourself with some of the incredible experiences we have to offer. Here’s a little inspiration to get you started…
Relive Our History Explore the Fred Rogers Trail - Celebrate Latrobe native and America’s favorite neighbor, Fred Rogers! Tour the Fred Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College, where you can see artifacts from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, including his iconic cardigan sweater and tennis shoes. Take a selfie with a statue of Fred in downtown Latrobe, his hometown and birthplace of the banana split. Later this summer, spend a day at Idlewild & Soak Zone where Daniel Tiger and friends invite you and your kiddos to ride the trolley through the Neighborhood of Make-Believe.
Lincoln Highway Experience - Step back in time at the Lincoln Highway Experience museum where you can explore the history, retro memorabilia, vintage roadside signage, and a stunning expansion featuring a beautifully restored 1938 diner, a 1937 Packard-120, vintage tourist cabin, and filling station. Added bonus – every admission includes a stamped commemorative postcard, slice of pie, and cup of coffee in the vintage diner! If you have little ones, be sure to add in some time for them to explore the “Penny for Your Tots” room. They will love the ride-around toy cars, a mini stationary bike for them to peddle their way along the Lincoln Highway, license plate etching and coloring station, and more.
Historic Hanna’s Town – With nearly 300 years of stories to tell, a visit to Hanna’s Town is a must-do for history buffs. In 1769, farmer and businessman Robert Hanna purchased the 337-acre territory on the first day it was legal to own property west of the Allegheny Mountains. A few years later, a bustling town had grown, a militia was formed, and the first westernmost court system was developed. Visit the site to learn more about the settlers’ lifestyle on the Western frontier, but also the attack on the town that was considered one of the last conflicts of the Revolutionary War.
Discover artifacts from the Westmoreland Historical Society’s rich collection, many on display for the first time, on exhibit in the Education Center. “Gems of the Collection: Everything and the Kitchen Sink” features “gems” from history including documents, photographs, clothing, furniture, tools, glassware, archaeological material – and, yes, even a kitchen sink.
Insider tip… If you can’t get enough history, be sure to pick up a Westmoreland Heritage Passport! This handy free passport will guide you to hidden historic gems and special events. Visit westmorelandheritage.org to order yours.
Unique Experiences Valhalla Indoor Axe Throwing and Archery – If you have been looking for something new and unique to try, then look no further than Valhalla. Channel your inner “savage” at one of two locations – Latrobe or Jeannette! If you have a natural talent for this cool new sport, ask about their league teams.
Polymath Park – If you love architecture, chances are you have toured Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece Fallingwater and per- haps even nearby Kentuck Knob. But what about Polymath Park? At Polymath Park, Wright fans can tour and stay overnight in the newly-rebuilt Mäntylä and Duncan House, as well as two homes designed by one of his apprentices. Be sure to make res- ervations for lunch or dinner at the onsite TreeTops Restaurant!
Fresh Air Fun Mammoth Park – After months of patiently waiting, the new giant slide complex at Mammoth Park is slated to open in late spring or early summer 2020. When com- plete, this stunning park will feature two side-by-side 100-foot racing slides and a 41-foot curved plastic slide designed for the littlest thrill-seekers. ADA-accessible walk- ways, seating, landscaping, and ample photo opportunities make this complex a destina- tion for residents and visitors alike.
Cedar Creek Park – If it’s been a long winter for you, just think about your furry fourlegged friend, Fido. Tell Fido to fetch his favorite tennis ball, and grab his leash, a few bottles of water, and a doggie bowl then head to Cedar Creek Park. From the special dog park area and the hiking trails to the model radio-controlled airfield and sce- nic play areas, you will see why Cedar Creek is a favorite destination for outdoor enthu- siasts. No furry friend? No worries! Bring your bike and hop on the Great Allegheny Passage bike trail for a few mile spin.
Cultural Destinations Take in a Show – You don’t have to travel to the city for Broadway-quality theatrical pre- sentations! Whether you love a melodious musical, a beautiful ballet, or tumultuous drama, you will find a show that suits you at one of our local theatres such as The Palace and The Lamp Theatre.
Explore Art Museums – The Laurel Highlands is full of inspirational works of art. Renowned paintings line the walls of museums and galleries of all kinds. Spend a rainy afternoon exploring the vibrant colors and diverse artwork at The Westmoreland Museum of American Art or meander the spectacular gardens and special exhibits of the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art.
Raise Your Glass Embark on a self-guided journey to dis- cover the story and people behind every craft beverage in the Laurel Highlands. Enjoying locally crafted beer, wine, and spirits has never been more fun! Grab your official Laurel Highlands Passport and col- lect stickers as you enjoy the wines, ciders, moonshine, meads, and craft brews found throughout the scenic Laurel Highlands. Then, cash in your sticker collection for must-have Laurel Highlands Pour Tour col- lectibles. Visit lhpourtour.com to request your passport. Be sure to use #LHPourTour on Instagram and Facebook!
Looking for some more ideas, info, or inspiration? Check out laurelhighlands.org or contact the Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau at 724.238.5661 or stop by the Westmoreland County Visitor Information Center at 814 US-119, New Stanton.
