Youth Anti-Homelessness Initiative
A variety of social, economic and health conditions drive youth into homelessness. Many are unique to youth, such as parental homelessness, running away from home, being abandoned by parents, abuse and aging out of foster care. Homeless youth are at a higher risk for disease, infection and human trafficking.
The Youth Anti-Homelessness Initiative and opening of our CrossRoads shelter is a natural extension of the therapeutic continuum of care provided by WCH. The earlier a person becomes homeless, the longer they tend to stay homeless. Together, we can help break the cycle of abuse and poverty by providing resources for homeless youth so they can become independent, productive members of society.
WCH helps homeless youth through many programs such as:
Street Outreach Services
Safe Place
CrossRoads Shelter
Nick's Story
At just 18, Nick has already faced more than most. After his mother remarried, his stepfather's abuse grew until his mom told him to leave. With nowhere to go, staying in school felt pointless. He slept on a friend's couch until that, too, fell through. Now, Nick wanders the streets — tired, hungry, and angry at everyone, including himself. At the Wichita Children's Home, we help young people like Nick through our youth anti-homelessness program, offering food, shelter, and the resources to find housing, finish school, find work, and rebuild hope for a brighter future.
Project Safe Place
Area QuikTrip® stores serve as a Safe Place
24 hours a day for children and youth who are in crisis, runaway, or are without a place to stay.
We're here for you. Any time. Day or night. Call our hotline at (316) 262-HOME.