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Part of South Ferry Street in Albany, New York, will be renamed today (December 9) in honor of Father Peter Young, a beloved priest who dedicated his life to helping others. Father Young passed away in 2020 at the age of 90 after battling multiple myeloma. Known for his tireless work in transforming lives and attitudes towards substance abuse, he founded four nonprofit organizations providing shelter, employment, and substance-abuse counseling to thousands.
Father Young, ordained in 1959, served as a pastor at St. John’s Church in Albany's South End, where he became known as a "street priest." His efforts led to the creation of Peter Young Housing, Industries, and Treatment (PYHIT), which grew into a statewide network aiding the homeless, veterans, and those struggling with addiction. His advocacy also contributed to the decriminalization of alcoholism in New York State.
The renaming ceremony will take place at 11 a.m., hosted by city officials and representatives of PYHIT. Father Young's legacy continues to inspire, as his work has left a lasting impact on the Capital Region and beyond.