Transforming Lives: TANL House Offers Safe Haven for Vulnerable Youth

In a heartwarming initiative, a new home in Madison County, Indiana, is set to provide a much-needed safe haven for children with nowhere else to turn. The Turn Away No Longer Inc (TANL) non-profit organization is spearheading this project, offering a warm and secure environment for these young individuals before they are placed with foster families.

Bridging the Gap: TANL House, a Lifeline for Vulnerable Youth

Addressing the Urgent Need for Transitional Housing

The reality of children sleeping in offices or other unsuitable locations is a harsh truth that many in the child welfare system have witnessed. Becca Mattson, a 23-year-old who experienced the instability of the foster care system firsthand, is now a driving force behind the TANL House project. She recounts her own journey, having been placed in eight different foster homes between the ages of 16 and 18. This personal experience has fueled her passion to ensure that no child endures such a tumultuous transition.

Providing a Safe Haven and Warm Beds

The newly renovated seven-bedroom TANL House, gifted to the non-profit by Unified Group Services, can accommodate up to 10 children before they are placed with a foster family. This temporary housing solution aims to offer a comfortable and secure environment, a stark contrast to the alternative of children staying in shelters, police stations, or Department of Child Services (DCS) offices – locations that are simply not suitable for young, vulnerable individuals.

Expanding the Reach: A New House for 23 Children

The organization's ambitious plans extend beyond the TANL House, as they are also working to build a brand-new facility that can accommodate up to 23 children. This expansion reflects the growing need for such transitional housing, as evidenced by the staggering statistics shared by Shannon Schumacher, the President and CEO of the Villages of Indiana. In August alone, the organization received nearly 600 referrals, but was only able to place 46 of those children into foster homes.

Addressing the Foster Care Crisis in Indiana

The state of Indiana is facing a significant challenge, with over 17,000 children currently in the foster care system. Madison County, in particular, ranks third in the state for the highest number of children in foster care. This crisis underscores the vital role that organizations like TANL play in providing a safety net for these vulnerable youth.

Trauma-Informed Care and Volunteer Support

The TANL House will be staffed by volunteers who are trained in CPR and equipped to support children dealing with trauma. This holistic approach aims to ease the transition and provide a nurturing environment for these young individuals, many of whom have already experienced significant upheaval in their lives.

A Beacon of Hope: The TANL House Mission

Becca Mattson's words capture the essence of the TANL House's mission: "I'm really looking forward to looking at a child at one of the hardest days of their lives and saying hey we're here for you and we're going to be here for you and we're going to love you." This unwavering commitment to supporting and empowering vulnerable youth is the driving force behind the TANL House project.As the organization works to finalize the legal process and furnish the home, they eagerly anticipate welcoming their first residents by December 1st. The TANL House stands as a beacon of hope, offering a safe haven and a chance for a brighter future for the children it serves.