The Street Outreach Program was created to address the increasing number of vulnerable youth living on the streets and engaging in potentially self-destructive behaviors. The program utilizes paid staff and trained volunteers to contact youth living on the street and connect them with resources they need to be safe and healthy. Youth are provided with personal care items, hygiene kits, STI prevention information and supplies, informational counseling, referrals to meal sites, referrals to shelter services and referrals for counseling and medical care as appropriate.
The program’s primary goals are to:
- Provide access to emergency shelter and assist youth in moving to safe housing
- Connect youth with the support services they need to develop positive lifestyles
- Provide youth with access to culturally-competent STI information, prevention and treatment services
Every year, the Street Outreach Program provides services to more than 2,000 youth, giving out thousands of personal care products, food, drink and information items.
Statements of clients’ experiences with homelessness:
“I am sleeping in my car and find a couch every couple days. I’m afraid and do not have support. I really want to get back on my feet but it seems impossible.”
“I just want help”
“My mom kicked me out and I have nowhere to go. My friend from shelter receives my social security money as my advisor and is taking advantage of me.”
2022 Impact
- Contacts to youth and young adults ages 12-24: 1,561
- Distributed 361 hygiene kits & 169 STI prevention kits
- 446 outreach hours were provided (street & site-based)
For more information contact the Program Coordinator, at 608.251.6211
