PROVIDENCE — The Urban League of Rhode Island will receive $200,000 from the federal government to continue a program that provides temporary housing to young adults ages 18 to 21 who are homeless.

The Transitional Living Program offers young adults food, housing, adult supervision and access to education, healthcare and social services. The federal monies, announced by Sen. Jack Reed, will help the program continue for another five years and provide services to 60 young adults.

“Many homeless youngsters are victims of violence and abuse who have no choice but to stay on the streets,” said Reed, a member of the Senate appropriations subcommittee. “Without access to basic necessities and an understanding of how to take care of themselves, it is almost impossible for these young adults to change course. This federal grant will allow the Urban League to continue providing Rhode Island’s homeless young adults with a safe haven, supportive environment and life-training skills.”

The program provides housing in either a four-bedroom house in South Providence that accommodates eight youths or in one of the Urban League’s six host homes. All participants must be enrolled in school or working full-time.

Dennis B. Langley, president and CEO of the Urban League, said the program allows youth to reunite with their families when appropriate, finish their education and live free from the dangers associated with living on the street.

“Our work with runaway and homeless youths,” Langley said, “provides a safe place for them to escape from the streets where they are often victims of sexual assault, violence, involvement with prostitution, substance abuse and confrontation with law enforcement.”

lborg@projo.com