We aspire to inspire communities to recognize, respond and act to end youth homelessness Youth Emergency Services (YES) works for youth between the ages of 12-24 residing in Pend Oreille County, Washington State
YES drop-in center for youth 12 to 24, is a safe, homey environment. Young people can grab a shower, wash their clothes, get a warm meal and meet with their case managers. YES offers clothing, food care packages, personal hygiene items, school supplies, and WIFI to attend classes. Case Managers meet with young people at schools, YES drop-in center and in the community with food, clothing and hygiene items, if they are needed. The young person and case manager ‘unpack’ their status; their sense of safety, medical, dental and mental health needs; their current assets, skills, family and friends they may be able to call. A plan emerges to meet the young person’s goals step by step, with their voices and choices being the priority with case manager offering information, advocacy and resources. Health Services - medical, dental, vision and mental health needs may be identified as each person gets to know each other. Young people receive assistance navigating health care systems, applying for coverage, arranging services and transportation to/from appointments. Housing and Support -- YES arranges both short term/emergency and long term housing for youth when necessary and possible. During Covid this has been more difficult. This is done through the utilization of community based host homes. YES works closely with community members, school officials, law enforcement, court employees, and community programs to ensure the child's needs are met. Through counseling and court advocacy, family stabilization/reunification, safety and voice of the youth are primary goals of YES
Each youth is engaged in services until both the youth and case manager feel they are in a safe, stable situation and appropriate transition plans are in place. This can take a few days to several years of program support and or services.
