What is a Youth Navigator?

It’s hard for a young person to achieve individual goals and aspirations if they lack stable housing. Staying in school, getting a job, or maintaining healthy relationships is difficult when the immediate concern is where they’ll sleep tonight. But searching the world of housing resources can be daunting.

MHA Youth Navigators help young adults to identify and access resources that fit their individual needs and circumstances. Initially, this involves securing or sustaining housing. It also could mean connecting young adults with meaningful benefits, such as health insurance, food subsidies, mental health services, job training or employment opportunities.

MHA Youth Navigators focus on individuals ages 18 to 24 who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. There is no cost to work with an MHA Youth Navigator.

Our empathetic team members are experienced working with individuals from all backgrounds as well as persons with physical disabilities or mental health concerns

“If you went hiking on an unfamiliar trail, you’d want a guide to help you get where you want to be. That’s pretty much what I do. I guide young adults in what can be an overwhelming process to find housing. And if someone doesn’t have health insurance, benefits or support services, I help them get it. MHA understands what you’re facing and we’re here to help you. Let us.”

Olivia Bernstein,
MHA Clinical Director,Homeless Services

How Can We Help?

Here in the four counties of western Massachusetts, MHA Youth Navigators approach homelessness solutions from multiple perspectives.

Are you a youth who needs help with your housing?

  • Between homes
  • Unsafe, unstable or insecure housing
  • Currently in shelter
  • Lacking resources to sustain housing

There are many community resources, but finding the right ones can be confusing and frustrating. An MHA Youth Navigator can help you identify and access the right ones for you.

Are you a provider of housing and support services?

  • Shelters
  • Youth serving organizations
  • Other state funded agencies

MHA can bridge the gap between persons in need and the services you provide. We’re a nonprofit organization and it costs you nothing to work with us. Let us support your team in finding housing solutions for youth you’re working with.

Are you someone wanting to make a referral?

  • Teacher, guidance counselor or librarian
  • Health care provider
  • Youth advocate
  • Friend or neighbor

Perhaps you know someone who would benefit from a referral to MHA. We can help find the right resources and take the right steps to set up housing now and for the long term. No matter your need or role, it’s easy to start a confidential conversation with an MHA Youth Navigator.

Staying in school, getting a job, or maintaining healthy relationships is difficult when your immediate concern is where you’ll sleep tonight. But searching the world of housing resources can be daunting.

MHA Youth Navigators can help you identify and access resources that fit your individual needs and circumstances. Initially, this involves securing or sustaining housing. It also could mean connecting you to meaningful benefits like health insurance, food subsidies, mental health services, job training or employment opportunities.

If you are 18 to 24 and need help with your housing, an MHA Youth Navigator can help you. It’s easy to start a confidential conversation.

It’s easy to start a confidential conversation with an MHA Youth Navigator.

In Hampshire, Franklin or Berkshire Counties:

Olivia Bernstein
413-233-5395
413-636-6816 (cell)
obernstein@mhainc.org