Happy New Year from Urban Triage to you and your family! We had a hectic and successful 2023, and we're confident 2024 will be just as successful in providing youth and homeless services. Please take a look below at what we're up to in 2024 and the impact we made in 2023.

Happy New Year Brandi!

In 2023, the days were lengthy, and the schedules demanding. Nevertheless, our commitment to remedying the pressing issues of social injustice and economic instability, both nationally and locally, remained steadfast.

We made significant strides, providing rent and utility assistance to 2,132 families and individuals, distributing $7.6 million through our Rental Support and Security Deposit Program. Our Homeless Outreach team served 168 individuals without homes. Furthermore, 10 participants completed our Specialty Crop Hemp Program, with each eligible participant receiving a $2,500 seed grant to initiate agricultural businesses.

I am pleased to announce that Housing Navigation Services will transition from Catholic Charities to Urban Triage in January. Now an initiative of Urban Triage, created in partnership with Dane County, Housing Navigation Services aims to offer compassionate and culturally sensitive support to those facing housing insecurity and homelessness. Our HNS Specialists will be located at The Beacon Monday through Wednesday from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm in room 201.

Additionally, we will be expanding our housing services to include the expansion of our rapid rehousing to 50 additional families who will receive rental support and case management up to 24 months. We will also be operating a new Transitional Housing Program for youth/emerging adults at a Dane County Department of Human Services (DCDHS) owned property located at 1738 Roth Street on Madison's North Side. This home will offer transitional housing to 6 youth ages 18-21 for up to 2 years.

We are actively seeking to involve and listen to the voices of our community’s young people in order to better implement supportive services. We recognize that they are the experts on their own needs. If you are a student in the Madison Metropolitan School District, or if you know someone who is, we invite you to join us on January 26, 2024, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm at our South Madison office on Park Street for an evening of dinner, conversation, and enjoyment. Transportation will be provided from all MMSD high schools starting at 5:00 pm. Following the conversation, students will be transported to Sky Zone for Glow Night, where they can enjoy a two-hour jump session. For more information and to register for this event, please click the button below.

This newsletter underscores the impact we have made together in the past year and what lies ahead. Our achievements are possible because of you, the community. I extend my deepest gratitude to our community for its unwavering support and dedication to Black lives, the mission of Urban Triage, and our collective vision for the future. The success and growth of our staff also fill me with humility; their contributions are indispensable. Looking forward, I am filled with excitement about our direction.

Should you have any inquiries, please feel free to contact me at bgrayson@urbantriage.org. To read the full newsletter, click the button at the bottom of this email. I urge you not to miss out on the remarkable work we are undertaking.

In solidarity,

NEW YEAR, NEW PROGRAMS, NEW GROWTH

Check out the amazing new things we have in store this year!

RENTAL SUPPORT AND SECURITY DEPOSIT PROGRAM

Building Stronger Families and Communities, One Home at a Time

In 2023, Urban Triage allocated more than $7 million in rental support to approximately 2,000 households. These funds covered security deposits, rent, and utilities, aiding families in maintaining stable housing, securing economic stability, and improving overall well-being. The objectives of this financial assistance included preventing homelessness, fostering economic stability, enhancing community cohesion, diminishing income disparity, and ensuring that low-income families had opportunities for decent, affordable housing due to the repercussions of COVID-19.

SUPPORTING HEALTHY BLACK AGRICULTURE

Growing Together and Nourishing Our Neighbors

After twelve weeks of dedication to our Supporting Healthy Black Agriculture workgroup, participants were rewarded with complimentary garden beds installed by our staff. This gesture enabled them to apply the skills acquired during the program. Participants cultivated a variety of produce including tomatoes, peppers, parsnips, collards, cucumbers, bok choy, shallots, and kohlrabi. They marked the conclusion of the program by consuming the fruits of their labor, expressing gratitude to the land for its bounty, forging enduring relationships, and receiving certificates of completion.

The recent growing season in Wisconsin proved to be the driest in numerous years. Despite the effectiveness of our irrigation system, it could not replicate the benefits of natural rainfall. Nevertheless, our high tunnel installation played a crucial role in our success, allowing us to harvest until November and distribute more than 2,701 pounds of produce to members of the community.

SUPPORTING HEALTHY BLACK FAMILIES

Together, We’re Building a Healthier Tomorrow

Supporting Healthy Black Families (SHBF) is a 12-week personal leadership and change workgroup that empowers and inspires breakthroughs and transformation in Black people, families, and communities. Our 12th cohort started May 20, 2023 and we had 42 parents and children enrolled in our 12th SHBF cohort. We met every other Saturday from noon to 2:30 pm. A $50 weekly stipend was provided to participants and paid monthly via CashApp. Children over six (6) also attended and received Black history lessons and self-expression through the arts. Our CEO led the parent sessions while Black retired teachers lead the children's sessions.

We focus on three areas of learning:

• Cognitive Learning: This refers to acquiring knowledge, understanding, and critical thinking about racism, brain structure, parenting, child development, and local issues.
• Social and Emotional Learning: Refers to trauma recovery, social connectedness, shared values and responsibilities, empathy, solidarity, respect for differences and diversity, and a sense of responsibility for your future.
• Behavioral Learning: Refers to learning from experiences and understanding what you want based on what you don't want. It also involves intentionally and deliberately creating experiences to develop new habits and a new reality.

SHBF workgroups are community-based programming that takes participants on a journey of self-discovery. It provides the tools and cultivates the space to unpack your trauma and heal while learning the root of it all. You will build an analysis of white supremacy racism and identify the impact it has on our souls and our perceptions which leads to disempowerment and the embodiment of an inferiority complex.

SUPPORTING HEALTHY FAMILIES:

THOREAU ELEMENTARY

Empowering Young Minds to Nurture the Next Generation

Urban Triage has collaborated with Thoreau Elementary School's students, parents, and staff since October 2021. Each Monday, for a duration of two and a half hours, students engaged in academic support sessions led by Black educators from the Madison area. Additionally, Urban Triage staff facilitated the development of personal awareness, communication, and emotional intelligence skills. Biweekly on Saturdays, for the same time period, separate sessions were conducted for students and their parents.

During these Saturday meetings, students focused on self-expression through various art projects that changed weekly. Concurrently, parents participated in a tailored version of our Supporting Healthy Black Families curriculum. This program aimed to enhance their parenting, leadership, and advocacy skills while equipping them with tools for increased awareness and accountability. Furthermore, we provided a supportive environment for addressing their trauma.

#HOUSINGOURFUTURE CAMPAIGN

A Community United Towards Stability

Giving Tuesday represents a worldwide day of philanthropy. This year, Urban Triage adopted the theme #HousingOurFuture. Our organization set goals to secure housing for 40 families and young individuals, offer emergency shelter to 20 women escaping domestic violence, and provide 100 families with warm meals and gifts during the holiday season.

Due to your remarkable generosity, we raised more than $20,000 to support homeless families and youth by year's end. Our partners significantly contributed to this success. Starbucks exhibited our flyers in 24 of their stores, while Grace's Coffee did the same in seven locations. Delta Beer Lab not only showcased our flyer but also donated cases of beer. Short Stack Eatery showcased our flyer and contributed $2 from sales of specific items on Giving Tuesday. We extend profound gratitude to all businesses that collaborated with us.

We continued with the #HousingOurFuture theme for our end-of-year fundraising campaign. Urban Triage joined forces with Zuri's Furry Friends to distribute teddy bears crafted by five-year-old Zuri, who operates her business with family support. They underwrote the first 15 bears sold. Moreover, Starbucks facilitated our outreach by permitting the placement of our flyers and essential item donation boxes at eight Dane County locations. These partnerships furthered our ability to support our community's needs. We are thankful for the support of these partners.

SUPPORTING HEALTHY BLACK AGRICULTURE: SPECIALTY CROP WORKGROUP

Transforming the Hemp Industry

In September, we kicked off our first Specialty Hemp Crop Program with 10 committed participants. A graduation was held for these budding entrepreneurs on December 8th! This occasion signified an important milestone; we celebrated the accomplishments of our first group of students with pride. They meticulously developed business plans and sharpened their skills to begin the thrilling venture of establishing agriculture-based businesses. We had the honor of observing the fruition of our skilled students' diligent efforts as they confidently presented their thoroughly prepared business plans, which encompass infused chicken wings, pickles, cake pops, candies, among others.

As part of the reward for their hard work and dedication, we are providing funds to these budding entrepreneurs, providing crucial support for their business start-up costs. Our commitment to these graduates doesn't end there. The Urban Triage agriculture department is dedicated to providing continuous support as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of their small business journey. From mentorship to resources, we ensure that our graduates are well-equipped for success.

UNHOUSED NEIGHBORS INITIATIVE

Together, We're Closing the Gap: 547 Unhoused Neighbors, 547 Brighter Futures

Our Unhoused Neighbors Initiative is designed to be the initial contact point for many experiencing homelessness and/or housing insecurity in the City of Madison and the Dane County area. We employ a team of Outreach Specialists who go out into the community three times per week to locate, identify, and build relationships with those who are experiencing homelessness and/or housing insecurity to engage them for the purpose of providing immediate support, intervention, and connections with other organizations through our partnership with the Homeless Consortium - providing advocacy and direct access points.

In 2023, our Outreach team was busy. We held a winter coat drive where we donated 75 coats to the community, we had 547 unhoused neighbors connected by our Outreach team, and 156 families placed in permanent housing. Homeless outreach is essential in addressing the complexities of homelessness. By providing essential services, promoting mental health and well-being, and reducing stigma, our Unhoused Neighbors Initiative contributes to the overall improvement of the lives of those experiencing homelessness and the community as a whole.

UNHOUSED YOUTH INITIATIVE

 A Leap Towards Stability: 20 Youth, 20 Homes

In May we hosted the Grand Opening of our Urban Youth Center, a youth drop-in center. The Urban Youth Center was built to provide a safe space for youth ages 17.5 to 24 to receive support without judgment. It is a place they can come to rest, escape, shower, and wash their clothes, and a place they can receive support with their resume, job placement referrals, essential needs, trauma recovery, housing navigation services, food, case management, direct referrals to psychotherapy, and so much more. 

We supported 105 youth through our Unhoused Youth Initiative, as well as place 20 youth into permanent housing.

ANNUAL SUMMER KICKBACK

Celebrating Community, With Community

On July 22nd, we held our 3rd Annual Summer Kickback, which is free to the community in efforts to bring everyone together to celebrate and have fun with each other. There were nearly 2,000 community members that attended this event. We held a DJ battle including DJ Pain 1, DJ Fusion (from 93.1 JAMZ), and DJ Shorty. Congratulations to DJ Shorty for winning that battle. We also had our famous double-dutch contest. We awarded a $100 gift card to the winner. We also gave gift cards by way of a raffle and gave $150 in cash to the best-dressed field day (athletic/sportswear) outfit. We had four food trucks and all of the food was free! We also had 30 Black vendors at our event to promote and sell their products and for our community to learn more about resources available through other agencies.

ANNUAL URBAN HARVEST FEST

Community Returning to the Land

This celebration commemorated our second year of acknowledging summer achievements and community impact. We conducted our Second Annual Urban Triage Harvest Festival on Saturday, September 16th, at our farm situated within the Farley Center for Peace, Justice, and Sustainability. The theme for this year was "Wild Wild West". Approximately 1,000 community members graced this event with their presence. Exceptional entertainment was provided by DJ Pain 1, along with a live performance by Cigarette Break. A spoken word artist captivated the audience as well. The No Boundaries dance team delivered a remarkable dance performance, complemented by an African Drum Circle and Dance showcase from African Drum and Dance Milwaukee. The festival featured exhilarating acrobatics, tightrope walking, stilt walkers, a bounce house, and interactive activities from The Children's Museum. Additionally, attendees enjoyed complimentary food, wine, and beer.

LITTLE MERMAID MOVIE PREMIERE

Breaking Barriers: Celebrating Black Girl Magic

On May 26th, Urban Triage hosted a special premiere of the new Disney film, "The Little Mermaid," at Palace Cinema in Sun Prairie. The event attracted 124 attendees and proved to be an exceptional experience. This film holds historical significance as it enables Black girls to see themselves represented positively within Disney narratives. Community engagement and social connectedness are essential for addressing past injustices and maintaining a healthy community. Urban Triage takes pride in organizing community-centered events that foster positivity.

NEW YEAR, NEW PROGRAMS, NEW GROWTH

Check out the amazing new things we have in store this year!

HOUSING NAVIGATION SERVICES

Housing Navigation Services

Beginning January 2024, Housing Navigation Services will transition from Catholic Charities to Urban Triage. Housing Navigation Services is now an initiative of Urban Triage – created in partnership with Dane County – to provide compassionate, caring, and culturally conscious services to individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity and homelessness. We want to ease this often stressful navigation by addressing your personal needs, preferences, and barriers to achieving housing. Our staff uses an individualized approach with each person or family to determine the level of assistance needed when crafting a personalized housing plan. Additionally, resources such as employment and training, benefits, and overall health services are factored in for client success.

Youth Transitional Housing

Urban Triage will operate a new Transitional Housing Program for youth/emerging adults at a Dane County Department of Human Services (DCDHS) owned property located at 1738 Roth Street on Madison's North Side. This home will offer transitional housing to persons ages 18-21 with a maximum housing period of 2 years (thereby making the oldest occupants age 23). We will serve six (6) emerging adult residents at a time and there will be a live-in resident mentor with lived experience living in residence at all times to provide support the residents and help manage day-to-day operations. We will also be providing supportive services to help ensure the success of the residents as they transition to permanent housing.

Rapid Rehousing Program

Urban Triage will be expanding their Rapid Rehousing services to an additional 50 households each year and providing these households with up to 24 months of rental assistance and case management. The resources provided to these households will be tailored to the unique needs of the participants and will include the supportive services of our other housing programs to ensure housing stability as participants transition to permanent housing.

COMMUNITY YOUTH ENGAGEMENT

We're changing the trajectory of lives, one person at a time.

COMMUNITY TOWN HALL MEETING

We recognize the paramount importance of transparency and collaboration. We are equally eager to learn from our youth to understand and seek insights on better aligning our efforts with their evolving needs. Through this dual process of engagement and collaboration, we aspire to build a more resilient, informed, and interconnected community where every member, especially our youth, has the tools and support they need to thrive.

We will host our second town hall meeting on Friday, January 26th, 2024, for a youth conversation. Transportation will be provided and dinner will be sponsored by MMSD. After the conversation, we'll head to Sky Zone with the youth for Glow Night. More details will be announced as we get closer. If you have questions, please email info@urbantriage.org or click the button below.

MEETING THEM WHERE THEY'RE AT

Urban Triage is known for developing and implementing programs that fill the niche and gaps and serve those most vulnerable. We've successfully and impactfully served 3,082 individuals over the last year with housing services and placed more than 300 individuals and families in permanent housing. We have more than 4 years of providing support and services to tenants and landlords, which positions us to meet the needs of vulnerable youth effectively and efficiently.

STAY CONNECTED, STAY INFORMED

Discover what's happening in your community.

Tuesday, January 2nd | Tenant Resource Center New Location

WE'RE HIRING!

Be part of an amazing organization and join our team.

Want to take your career to the next level? Want to be part of an organization making a difference every day in the lives of our most vulnerable? Want to join a team of amazing staff? Well, Urban Triage is where you want to be! We are hiring for the positions listed below.

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!

Start making a difference now and join our team of volunteers!

Are you ready to create change in our community? Apply to become one of our community advocates and make a difference today!

We are currently looking for immediate volunteers for the following:

• Agriculture
• Bilingual Support
• Organizing Office Space, Closets, and Storage
• Event Committees
• Events: Black Brilliance Gala
• Grant Writing

If you are interested in volunteering for the above needs or any other future needs of Urban Triage, please sign up to volunteer below!