‘A Walk in Their Shoes’: FirstEnergy Foundation Grant Helps Fight Youth Homelessness in N.J.

They say you never truly understand someone’s challenges until you “walk a mile in their shoes.” At Ocean’s Harbor House, they invite you to take it a step further with a two-mile walk that embodies this sentiment.

The annual “Walk in the Shoes” event, held last month along the scenic Asbury Park boardwalk, serves not only as a community gathering but as a vital platform for raising awareness about youth homelessness and its long-lasting effects. Ocean's Harbor House, a Toms River-based non-profit, leverages this event to drive home their mission of supporting youth and young families who are in desperate need.

This year, the FirstEnergy Foundation played a significant role in this mission by contributing an $8,000 grant, highlighting the importance of corporate support in community initiatives. 

“Uplifting our communities and providing opportunities to those most in need builds a brighter tomorrow,” said Doug Mokoid, FirstEnergy’s President, New Jersey. “Programs like Ocean’s Harbor House are the shining beacons that strengthen our communities and make New Jersey the great state it is.” 

Ocean's Harbor House offers a robust support system through their SHORE House supervised transitional living program (STLP), designed for homeless teens aged 16-21 who lack safe living arrangements. While participating in this program, these youth find a safe place to live and gain access to essential services like medical and mental health support, as well as educational and vocational resources.

 “The collaboration with the FirstEnergy Foundation has been invaluable to our efforts,” said Donna Carlson, Development Associate for Ocean’s Harbor House. “Their commitment to improving the quality of life in our community aligns perfectly with our mission to empower homeless youth.”

Since their first collaboration in 2019, the FirstEnergy Foundation has donated a total of $15,000 to support Ocean’s Harbor House, showcasing a dedication to fostering long-term solutions and stability for vulnerable young people. 

The support from the community during the "Walk in the Shoes" event not only raises awareness but also contributes directly to the resources available for these young individuals. As they navigate the challenges of homelessness, programs like these play a critical role in helping them build a future filled with hope and opportunity. 

To learn more about the FirstEnergy Foundation's commitment to community development and support, visit firstenergycorp.com/community.