The first New York State-funded Youth Safe Space opens in Albany Sept. 23, 2026.
New Program at the LaSalle School to Provide Free, Voluntary, Peer-Led Programming for Youth and Young Adults Ages 12 to 24 in Albany
State Also Awards $7.5 Million to Expand Program in Four Additional Counties, Addressing Rising Behavioral Health Challenges Among Young People
The New York State Office of Mental Health announced that the first state-funded Youth Safe Space has opened its doors on the LaSalle School campus in the city of Albany to address the evolving behavioral health needs of teens and young adults. The location is the first to open and is among seven that will provide peer-led, non-clinical services for youth and young adults 12 to 24, including locations in Suffolk, Tompkins, Ontario, and St. Lawrence counties that were recently awarded funding.
“As New York’s first mom governor, the mental health and wellbeing of our young people is a top priority,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “By funding Youth Safe Spaces in more communities across our state, we are ensuring that young people can make meaningful connections with peers in a supportive environment. Our young people face unique mental health pressures, and these safe spaces will help ensure they have access to the tools and supports they need to thrive.”
“Youth Safe Spaces offer a supportive environment during a pivotal period of a young person’s life that may present mental health challenges,” Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said. “The Landing will provide the opportunity for youth to build positive relationships and learn important skills. Supporting places where youth and families can access mental wellness resources and gather with peers reflects Governor Hochul’s ongoing investments in strengthening all aspects of our mental health care system.”
Youth Safe Spaces provide inclusive, peer-led environments designed to reduce isolation, promote positive relationships, and connect young people to both traditional and non-traditional support. These non-clinical programs complement clinical services and expand access to care by addressing cultural, financial, and systemic barriers.
State and local officials were on hand at the Conroy Building on the LaSalle School campus today to celebrate the opening of the new program called the Landing, which is expected to serve roughly 500 youth annually. The Landing will collaborate with local schools, social service agencies, healthcare providers, and culturally specific organizations to ensure youth receive comprehensive, inclusive support.
In addition to LaSalle, OMH-funded Youth Safe Spaces are expected to open this fall in Queens and in the Wayne County village of Newark. OMH provided funding to establish two new programs and support two existing community youth programs in adding core services, including:
- RiseWell Community Services, Inc.; $500,000 annually over five years to establish a new program at 18 South St., in Wyandanch in Suffolk County.
- St. John’s Community Services; $500,000 annually over five years to establish a new program in Tompkins County.
- Partnership for Ontario County; $250,000 annually over five years to enhance the OASAS Youth Recovery Clubhouse, EPIC Zone at 81 North St., in Geneva.
- Police Activities League of Massena, Inc.; $250,000 annually over five years to enhance an existing program located at 30 Bayley Rd, in Massena in St. Lawrence County.
Youth Safe Spaces are in accessible, community-based settings, including schools, youth centers, and other trusted spaces, where young people can access mental wellness resources, build positive peer relationships, and receive support in safe, comfortable environments. These programs foster leadership, peer connection, and cultural responsiveness while reducing stigma, building resilience, and advancing mental health equity in communities disproportionately impacted by systemic barriers.
The initiative to establish Youth Safe Spaces grew from feedback Governor Hochul received during her Youth Mental Health Listening Tour and at the Youth Mental Health Summit in June 2023. Members of the Youth Mental Health Advisory Board – a panel of middle and high school students established after the summit to advise on policies and initiatives – also strongly supported expanding Youth Safe Spaces statewide.
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