At a special ceremony, Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (CSS) blessed the Youth Skills Building Program (YSBP), a new after-school ministry in South Philadelphia.
Most Reverend John J. McIntyre, an Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia who oversees the Secretariat for Catholic Human Services (CHS) as part of his administrative and pastoral responsibilities, presided over the blessing.
He was joined by Mrs. Heather Huot, Secretary for CHS; Dr. James Black, Director of CSS’ Youth Services Division; Kimberly Ali, Philadelphia Department of Human Services (DHS) Commissioner; members of the CSS Board of Directors; local government officials; staff members from the program; and community supporters.
Funded by DHS to engage youth and help keep them safe, YSBP is a new after-school ministry of CSS’ Youth Services Division. The trade education program launched in May 2024, aiming to reduce risk factors for Philadelphia youth aged 13-18. It plans to serve 24 young people in its first year of operation.
