Assemblymember Harry Bronson celebrates 2025 holiday Donation Drive for The Center for Youth with a Visit to Arnett House, a Transitional Living House for LGBTQ+ Youth

December 19, 2025: Today Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson (AD-138) visited The Center for Youth’s Arnett House to share items collected on behalf of his annual holiday drive to support an organization in the 138th District. Arnett House is a transitional living program (TLP) for youth who identify as LGBTQ+ or are victims of human trafficking. 

The Assemblymember collected over 20 bags of non-perishable foods, bedding, hygiene products and more, all donated by residents of the 138th District and collected at his University Ave. office. With homelessness and housing insecurity continuing to pose significant challenges for Monroe County, The Center for Youth’s TLP is providing stability and resources for young people so they’re able to rebuild their lives. 

“I am proud to support young people in The Center for Youth’s Transitional Living Program, which assists them in achieving their full potential by creating opportunities, removing barriers, and providing safe spaces,” said Assemblymember Bronson. “I am so thankful for the many people who donated. It was a gratifying way to connect with constituents in the district and I am humbled by their incredible generosity and kindness. It was wonderful to visit Arnett House, meet the residents and learn about their experiences. These donations are helping to ensure at-risk youth in our community will have the warm and healthy holiday they deserve.”

"The Arnett House, a transitional living program at The Center for Youth, was a dream come true when we opened our doors to 6 young people who identified as LGBTQIA+ and trans and who were victims of sex trafficking. From that very first day and continuing over the years, Assemblyman Bronson has stood with us, and it is no surprise that in 2025, our most challenging year, he continues to be our ally and our friend and to seek support from others to join him. These donations are not measured by material gifts, but rather by good will, compassion, and generosity. We send great thanks to all who contributed," said Dr. Elaine Spaull, Executive Director, The Center for Youth.

About The Center for Youth’s Transitional Living Programs (TLP): The Center for Youth operates four transitional living and permanent housing programs for both young men and women: Chrysalis House, New Beginnings, Devonshire House and Arnett House. During their stay, each resident develops goals and carries out a plan to become independent. On a weekly basis, residents meet with their case managers and also attend life-skills workshops.

Chrysalis House

The Chrysalis House provides a beautiful living environment for young women who may be pregnant or have children for up to 18 months. Residents are actively involved in seeking educational programs and vocational and employment opportunities. Chrysalis House is a place where young mothers can make transformational decisions that positively impact themselves and their children under the guidance and support of a dedicated and nurturing staff.

New Beginnings House

Opened in 2015 specifically to serve young men who may have been homeless or disconnected from traditional supports. The multi-unit, independent living residence aides them on their journeys toward self-sufficiency while helping them strengthen permanent connections with family and community, complete GEDs and gain employment.

Arnett House

Established in 2020, Arnett House is a Transitional Living Program for homeless youth ages 16-24 who identify as LGBTQ+ or gender diverse. It also serves youth who have been the victims of human trafficking. Arnett houses up to 6 young people, each staying for 3-6 months. Up to 40% of young people who identify as LGBTQ+ experience victimization and homelessness. Arnett House receives funding from NYS’s Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) Program.

The Center for Youth accepts donations year-round. Visit their website to learn more about their programs and services, and how you can help by visiting the Center for Youth web site.