Youth Emergency Service (YES)
Summary
The Youth Emergency Service Program is Epworth's crisis care program and emergency shelter. Short-term housing and therapeutic support are provided for young people who need an immediate safe place to live because of abuse, neglect, homelessness or family conflict. YES is open 24/7 year around and can be reached through an emergency Helpline 24 hours daily, 365 days a year, to assist families and teens in crisis. The Helpline phone number is: 314.727.6294.
Crisis Shelter Program Elements
- YES accommodates six girls and six boys 11-18 years of age.
- Annually the program serves more than 175 children.
- Typical challenges include family conflict, homelessness, abuse and school challenges.
- YES provides a stabilization period for youth and families to participate in counseling sessions with YES staff and volunteers.
- The program includes individual, group and family counseling, attendance at community schools or G.E.D. programs.
- A licensed therapist and highly trained youth advisors work with the child and family.
- Each child receives individual, group and family therapy by a licensed therapist.
- The YES staff conduct weekly educational and recreation groups that address social skills, self-esteem, anger management and life skills.
Helpline
- The YES Helpline operates 365 days a year and 24 hours a day. Phone 314.727.6294
- The Helpline provides crisis intervention, counseling and referral information to anyone who calls.