In response to the growing concern and staggering numbers of Homeless and Runaway Youth in Berks County – Mary’s Shelter joined forces with the Berks County Intermediate Unit, Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH) and the Berks Coalition to End Homelessness Youth Committee to find and initiate solutions. Mary’s Shelter received several grants to open the YESS (Youth Empowerment Support Services) Residential Program and Drop-in-Center to address the immediate needs of young people living on the streets.
This is only the beginning! The community is committed to working together, building resources and strengthening partnerships which will change young lives. We are providing compassion, direction and hope at a critical time in their lives.
Expanding Our Reach: How We’re Supporting Homeless Youth
We accept youths from ages 14-21 of any gender
Short-term, emergency shelter for up to 21 days
Referral from outside services, call ahead, or admission at the door
Provides place to stay with home-like atmosphere
We have a laundry room, gym equipment, recreational activities, a full kitchen, a computer lab for school/job/recreational activities
Classes intended to build social, vocational, or life skills offered weekly
One-to-one counseling
Tutoring available through BCIU on Thursdays @ 4:30pm
Referrals to outside services
Assistance with applications for benefits, housing, services, or another program
Our Y.E.S.S. Program
18-month housing program
We accept youths from ages 16-21 of any gender
Referral from outside services, call ahead, or admission at the door
Provides place to stay with home-like atmosphere
We have a laundry room, gym equipment, recreational activities, a full kitchen, a computer lab for school/job/recreational activities
Classes intended to build social, vocational, or life skills offered weekly
One-to-one counseling
Assistance with job searches, college applications and career planning
Referrals to outside services
Case management services to help develop Goal Plans