🎙️ In this powerful episode of the Shelters of Saratoga Podcast, Executive Director Duane Vaughn is joined by Jefferson Weidman, Director of Runaway and Homeless Youth Services at CAPTAIN, for a sobering and urgent conversation about the growing crisis of homelessness in Saratoga — especially among children.

Homelessness in our community is not just a statistic — it's a daily struggle faced by families, teens, and children navigating a complex web of challenges, from mental health and public safety to food insecurity and a critical lack of stable housing. Over 30% of those experiencing homelessness in New York State are under the age of 18 — a reality that underscores just how vulnerable young people are in this crisis.

The episode shines a spotlight on the increasing demand for case management and referrals, particularly among youth. CAPTAIN’s youth shelter, which serves teens aged 13 to 17, is now averaging three to four new referrals each week — a dramatic rise that speaks to the deepening need. Vaughn and Weidman also tackle the uncomfortable truths behind this issue: the connection between youth homelessness and risks like human trafficking, exploitation, and chronic instability.

This episode calls on the community to acknowledge and act — to reimagine support systems, build stronger prevention programs, and ensure that no child is left without shelter, safety, or hope.

In this episode of Crossroads, Duane Vaughn, Executive Director of Shelters of Saratoga, discusses the collaboration between the shelter and the Saratoga Springs Police Department, especially through the Code Blue program, highlighting the importance of partnership in ensuring public safety and the well-being of shelter guests. Stephanie Romeo, Associate Executive Director, and Sgt. Zach Ferris, Saratoga Springs Police Department, also join the conversation, focusing on the CEO program, which aims to build community relationships and proactively address issues. Sgt. Ferris shares his transition from personal trainer to law enforcement, emphasizing the program’s positive impact on the community. The episode highlights the benefits of effective communication between the police and Shelters of Saratoga, improving service delivery and public safety.

In this episode of 'Crossroads,' Duane Vaughn, Executive Director of Shelters of Saratoga, is joined by Stephanie Romeo, Associate Executive Director, and Natalie Maxwell, Code Blue team leader, to discuss pressing issues surrounding homelessness in the Saratoga community. They cover the intricacies and misconceptions about homelessness, focusing on Code Blue, a program that provides emergency shelter during extreme cold weather. The conversation highlights the varying needs of people facing homelessness, the financial and logistical challenges of operating Code Blue, and the essential partnerships with county services and local organizations. The podcast also emphasizes the human aspect of homelessness, encouraging volunteerism and a non-judgmental approach. They share plans for a permanent Code Blue location and underscore the importance of stable housing solutions. Throughout, they stress that homelessness affects many facets of life, including mental health, safety, and employment, and discuss how Shelters of Saratoga assists individuals in achieving stability and independence.

Hosts of The Saratoga Podcast welcomed Duane Vaughn as a guest to discuss homelessness, how Shelters of Saratoga addresses it, and the future of a permanent low-barrier year-round shelter on the April 24, 2024 episode. Edited and posted with permission from The Saratoga Podcast. The full episode can be viewed here.

Introducing our new podcast episode featuring Melissa, a remarkable woman currently staying at our Emergency Shelter. From childhood struggles to motherhood, Melissa's journey is a raw and emotional rollercoaster. Tune in as she shares her story of resilience, difficult decisions, and finding hope and support at Shelters of Saratoga. This is just the beginning of our guest interviews – join us as we explore inspiring stories and the impact of our community support. Listen now!

In this episode, uncover the hidden dynamics of healthcare for people facing homelessness as Shelters of Saratoga, Saratoga Hospital, and the Community Health Center join forces. From street outreach to addressing social determinants, we explore the holistic approach to healthcare. Special guests Dr. Robert Donnarumma, the chief medical officer at Saratoga Hospital, and the Community Health Center's Sam Halajian join us to discuss the importance of treating the whole person.

Don't miss this eye-opening episode, shedding light on the collaborative efforts shaping comprehensive care. Available on all platforms—listen and join the conversation today.

"At the end of the day, these are people, and so we have to figure it out." Embark on a reflective journey through Saratoga's 30-year fight for those facing homelessness in this compelling episode. In our latest Crossroads episode, join Lisa and Ed Mitzen, philanthropists and founders of Business for Good, along with Tony Mangano, an SOS founding board member who helped establish Code Blue and a long-time volunteer, as they discuss the challenges, changes, and persistent struggle to aid the most vulnerable in our community. Delve into Ed's insightful book, "Wealthy and White," addressing the responsibility of the privileged to make a positive impact. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation on the evolving landscape of homelessness and the power of collective action.

Guests: Duane Vaughn, Executive Director, Tony Mangano, former board member and current volunteer at Shelters of Saratoga, Lisa Mitzen, board member at Shelters of Saratoga, co-founder of Business for Good Foundation, and Ed Mitzen, co-founder of Business for Good Foundation

"Healthcare alone can't solve homelessness." In episode 2 of Crossroads, we sit down with Pulitzer Prize winning and NYT best-selling author, Tracy Kidder. Kidder wrote Rough Sleepers, documenting his outreach with Dr. Jim O'Connell, providing clinical care for those living on the streets of Boston.