YSRP’s Housing Program Featured on ABC News

Recently, YSRP was featured in an ABC News segment highlighting our work to support young people impacted by the criminal legal system. The story focused on YSRP’s new housing program, which helps returning community members secure stable homes—a critical foundation for successful reentry.

The segment featured John Pace, YSRP’s Senior Reentry Coordinator, who shared his own experience of being sentenced to life in prison at 17 and spending 31 years behind bars. He spoke about the devastating impact of laws that allow children as young as 10 years old to be charged as adults in Pennsylvania. Today, John mentors young people coming home, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive.

One of those young people is client-partner, Raequan, who was incarcerated in an adult jail at 17. With YSRP’s support, he found stability, opportunity, and a path forward. "Being in jail was no fun place—it can make or break you. Luckily, it made me," Raequan shared.

At YSRP, we know that when young people have housing, community, and opportunity, they succeed—and our entire society benefits. Public safety isn’t built through punishment; it’s built through support and resources.

Watch the full segment here.