Advocacy
Advocacy is an important aspect of all program services at Covenant House New York. Our advocacy efforts play a key role in providing a voice for runaway, homeless and at-risk youth. Our Advocacy Department is dedicated to building a better system of supports for young people and a better understanding of their needs and the problems that they face.
What we do:
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Implement Legislative & Policy Agendas
Inform and shape policymakers’ decisions concerning the positive and/or negative impact of legislation and regulations. We do this through face-to-face meetings, oral and written testimony at public hearings, policy position papers, and participation in call-in and lobby days on key issues.
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Foster Public Awareness
Inform and educate the general public about the many problems our young people confront. We do this through action alerts, updates and newsletters on our advocacy efforts, and policy position papers.
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Develop Partnerships
Work in collaboration with local, state and national organizations to create a stronger voice for our youth. We do this by networking with organizations that share our passions and interests in young people, and by participating in numerous coalitions and associations.
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Direct Advocacy/Legal Services
Address the legal issues and provide legal advice to runaway, homeless, and at-risk youth. We do this by providing direct legal services and by working with legal service providers to afford expert legal representation on issues such as immigration, criminal, custody/support and housing matters.
