This week we’ll speak with Emily Meltzer, the Director of Development & Communications for Accelerator Y, the social services arm of the YMCA of Greater Seattle.

Emily tells us of the 1500 young people who find themselves homeless on any given night in the Seattle area. The YMCA is the largest provider of housing for homeless young adults in King County, offering a variety of programs including rapid rehousing, transitional housing, and permanent housing—especially for those who are exiting foster care and/or who are experiencing homelessness.

One unique way this story is being told is through a new program called Unheard Seattle. The Y has introduced different local artists to tell the stories of youth experiencing homelessness in their words put to music.

You can listen to these songs and support these efforts at www.unheardseattle.org