RELEASE: April 21, 2004

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Davy proposes $12.8 million dollar expansion
for adolescent prevention program

PERTH AMBOY— Department of Human Services (DHS) Commissioner Jim Davy proposed a $12.8 million dollar expansion of the School Based Youth Services Program (SBYSP) today as part of the State’s efforts to reform its child welfare system.

“As we observe Child Abuse Prevention Month, we continue to move forward with our child welfare reform plan,” said Commissioner Davy. “Unlike past reform efforts, it recognizes prevention programs like SBYSP are the key to helping our children and families without them ever becoming DYFS involved.”

As a key part of the State’s plan to reform its child welfare system, DHS will double the successful SBYSP by increasing funding by $12.8 million (currently $8 million to $20.8 million) over the next two fiscal years. Today, the program is located at 44 school districts statewide and serves over 75,000 teenagers each year.

Founded in 1988, SBYSP brings comprehensive supports directly to adolescents. The “one-stop shopping” design breaks down barriers that too often prevent young people from obtaining services and supports. Each SBYSP site provides core services such as crisis counseling, mental health and family counseling, substance abuse, job, summer and after-school services.

“SBYSP is a proven national model designed to help our most at-risk youth,” said Davy. “It helps adolescents build self-esteem while also developing pride in themselves and in their communities.”

A three-year evaluation of SBYSP found it to be effective in helping adolescents address problems. Funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and conducted by the Academy for Educational Development (AED), the evaluation found SBYSP adolescents showed increased aspirations and higher accumulation of credits toward graduation; less destructive behavior and feelings of anger.