HARRISBURG, PA — The Department of Human Services (DHS) recently inaugurated the Southeast Youth Development Center (YDC) in Montgomery County. This new secure residential facility aims to increase the state’s capacity to treat delinquent youth adjudicated to state care by county juvenile courts. The establishment of the Southeast YDC comes amid ongoing efforts by DHS to reduce the wait times for youth placement, especially those at overcrowded facilities like Philadelphia’s Juvenile Justice Services Center.
“DHS, county partners, and private providers all play a role in providing supportive and therapeutic services to children involved in the juvenile justice system, and by working together on prevention, intervention, and diversion strategies, we work to support and engage youth prior to involvement with the justice system,” said Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh. “While DHS does not control admissions to or discharges from our facilities, we also know that when judges adjudicate youth to our facilities, we need to have the capacity to serve them and provide them with the care and treatment they deserve to be successful. The opening of the Southeast YDC is an important investment in high quality care and support for adjudicated youth.”
DHS’ Bureau of Juvenile Justice Services (BJJS) operates other secure facilities in Franklin, Luzerne, Montour, Perry, and Butler counties. These facilities serve adjudicated delinquent youth who are ordered by juvenile court judges to receive treatment and rehabilitation. The length of stay for youth is determined by the judge, and DHS provides trauma-informed care, education, and vocational training to help youth transition successfully back into society.
The Southeast YDC began operations on July 23, 2024, and has a maximum capacity of 40 youth. The center’s programming and treatment services align with those offered across the BJJS system. Youth at the facility have the opportunity to earn credits towards a Pennsylvania High School Diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED), with educational services provided by Montgomery County Intermediate Unit #23.
This new facility represents a crucial step in addressing the needs of adjudicated youth in Pennsylvania, ensuring they receive the care and support essential for their rehabilitation and future success.
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