Comprehensive Life Resources Shelter -Pierce County

We are here to help young people experiencing homelessness. The New Directions Youth Center is modeled after Rosie’s Place, CYS’ successful street outreach and drop-in center for street youth that has been in operation since 2004 in Olympia. CYS’ experience in creating a day shelter/resource center for street youth using a program design that has proven effective will be a significant resource in

developing the New Directions Youth Center. Activities will include outreach to Pierce County young people in unincorporated areas of the county, provision of basic needs, case management, daytime shelter, referrals to an array of support services, and connections to peers and caring adults. Any young person ages 13-24 who does not have stable housing and/or is considered at-risk for homelessness is eligible to receive services. As a low barrier program, NDYC intentionally avoids creating stringent eligibility requirements so that youth are more likely to participate. While at NDYC, however, use of illegal substances will not tolerated, nor will physical aggression toward or harassment of anyone at the center. Youth who come to the NDYC will be required to sign in/out. Youth who choose case management are monitored closely by their case managers, who track goals, progress, issues, and types of support provided for their clients. Young persons may remain in the program until their 25th birthday.