Youth Advocate Programs (YAP), Inc. joins a call to action by advocates across the U.S. to reduce the coronavirus (COVID-19) risk for incarcerated young people. In 29 states and the District of Columbia, YAP partners with child welfare, youth justice, behavioral health and other systems in their efforts to reduce their reliance on out-of-home placements of young people in detention centers, youth prisons and other congregate care.

“We believe real caring, rehabilitation and support are best provided in the community, said YAP CEO Jeff Fleischer. “Particularly now with everything we know about reducing the risk for contracting the coronavirus, it’s time to release from congregate placement youth who can receive services safely, at home.”

Read here how advocates across the U.S. are urging governors and systems leaders to release incarcerated youth.

YAP is working closely with local systems partners to develop safe social distancing support practices that include creative virtual mentoring and advocate approaches to keep young people engaged in positive thinking and actions while supporting their families.