Contacts: Isela Roeder, (505) 925-2395 Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821

March 6, 2003 UNM’S CASAA HOSTS OPEN HOUSE The University of New Mexico’s Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse and Addictions (CASAA) will host an open house Friday, March 21, from 1 to 4 p.m. to showcase its new Runaway and Homeless Youth Program. The open house will be held at CASAA’s new facility located at 317 Washington S.E. CASAA’s Runaway and Homeless Youth Program received funding last October from the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment to expand, link and enhance services for street youth in Albuquerque. The program, which opened in early-January, provides many services coordinated onsite so access to services is facilitated. “Albuquerque is facing a crisis in which the welfare and future of its adolescents and young adults are at risk,” said Natasha Slesnick, research assistant professor at CASAA. “Many studies, both local and national, document high rates of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use, teenage pregnancy, mental illness, violence and school failure among homeless youth. “Given the void of comprehensive treatment services available for these youths in Albuquerque, and the high level of risk for health and psychological problems, there is a great need for reconnecting youth to the broader social system.” CASAA is coordinating with 12 different agencies that will either provide services onsite, or will coordinate referrals with the program. Drop-in services, including food, clothing, showers, washer/dryer and healthcare through Albuquerque’s Healthcare for the Homeless, are provided to any homeless youth between the ages of 14 to 24. CASAA also engages youth into more intensive services including individual therapy and case management. For more information contact Isela Roeder at 925-2395. # # #

The University of New Mexico
Public Affairs Department
Hodgin Hall, 2nd floor
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0011
Telephone: (505) 277-5813
Fax: (505) 277-1981