(2) The purpose of the Program is to:

(i) prevent and end youth homelessness in the State; and

(ii) address related disparities based on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

(b) (1) The Department shall administer the Program.

(2) The Department shall establish:

(i) application procedures; and

(ii) any other procedures or criteria necessary to carry out this title.

(c) (1) The Program shall be a competitive, performance-based grant program to provide funds to housing and supportive services for unaccompanied homeless youth and youth at risk of homelessness.

(2) The Program may provide a grant only to services that are voluntary and individualized.

(3) Recipients of grants from the Program may provide supportive services directly, or may provide services through sub-recipients or partners.

(4) Recipients of grants from the Program shall conduct an annual assessment of Program participants and update and adjust the services offered accordingly.

(5) Grants appropriated from the Program shall be allocated based on an assessment of the gaps in existing resources, with a primary focus on ensuring access to permanent affordable housing.