The Bridge for Youth grant appropriation

SF 854 appropriates a one-time grant from the general fund for fiscal year 2026 to The Bridge for Youth for a new facility in Hennepin County. The funds will cover land acquisition, design, construction, and equipment for a multiuse facility including up to 40 units of transitional housing and emergency shelter space for unaccompanied homeless youth and young families, plus youth program and recreational areas. The grant is administered by the commissioner of employment and economic development and remains available until project completion or abandonment. This bill directly affects The Bridge for Youth organization and homeless youth/youth families in Hennepin County by enabling new housing and support services.