Youth HOPE Month: Supporting vulnerable youth in our community

Foundation 2 Crisis Services provides 24/7 youth shelter for teens experiencing homelessness

November marks Youth Homelessness, Outreach, Prevention, and Education (HOPE) Month, a time to talk about the challenges faced by runaway and homeless youth. An estimated 4.2 million young people, ages 13 to 25, experience some form of homelessness each year across the country.

Homeless and runaway youth across Iowa are at higher risk of experiencing physical and sexual violence, trafficking and other forms of exploitation. They are also at increased risk for mental health issues, substance use and physical harm.

At the Foundation 2 Crisis Services Youth Shelter, we provide a safe, supportive environment for runaway or homeless youth, as well as those in crisis situations that require them to temporarily stay away from home. Since our youth shelter opened in 1976, we have continuously offered 24/7 care to some of the community’s most vulnerable youth, ensuring they have a secure place to stay during crises.

The youth shelter can house up to 17 youths at a time, ages 11-17. Support includes meals, transportation, medical care, school programming, and individual and group counseling.  Services are provided at no cost to the youth and their families.

For runaway or homeless youth, or at risk of experiencing homelessness, or in an unsafe situation, we may be able to help. They can contact the Youth Shelter on their own for more information or to request a bed. Learn more at 319-366-8797.

Every conversation about runaway or homeless youth can help prevent or intervene during a crisis situation. Youth HOPE Month is an opportunity to elevate those conversations and build stronger communities. Learn more on our website.