Name of program: Sanctuary Youth Shelter and “The Alley” Drop-In Center


What is the program’s goal? To offer temporary shelter to runaway, homeless, and otherwise displaced youth in crisis, as well as to assist in the successful reunification of the family through case management and counseling services.


When was the program established at EOC? The emergency Youth Shelter was the first Sanctuary program established in 1992. “The Alley” Youth Drop-In Center was established in 2007.


Who do you help (client base)? Runaway, homeless, or otherwise displaced youth ages 11-17.


What are the eligibility requirements? Youth, ages 11-17, who are experiencing crisis.


How many clients do you serve monthly/annually? 700 unduplicated youth annually


Who is the current program manager? Jody Ketcheside, Shelter Manager


How many employees work for this program? 15 employees, 2 Foster Grandparents, 2 interns, and various student and community volunteers.


Where is your office / are your offices located? 1545 “N” Street and 2336 Calaveras Street in downtown Fresno


Tell us about one of your “success stories” Jonathon arrived at the shelter at age 17. He was struggling with gang affiliation and substance abuse, arriving at the shelter drunk. Jonathon had difficulty refraining from glorifying the gang life he had immersed himself in and was unable to make decisions about where he wanted to see himself in the future. Jonathon stayed at the shelter on two separate occasions, just a few days apart. He attended the Street Outreach LIFT program sporadically after he discharged from the shelter, making some connections with the staff. Recently, Jonathon came to LIFT, and announced that he had enlisted in the military, and would be deploying to Iraq in a month. He has set some goals and is no longer gang affiliated. He is no longer abusing substances, and is looking forward to the journey he is about to embark on.


Anything else you’d like to tell us about your program? The Sanctuary offers parenting classes, which consist of 6-week long sessions Tuesday evenings from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. The Alley Youth Drop-In Center is open Tuesday through Thursday 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. The Drop-In Center provides respite to street youth, ages 11-17, allowing them to get a hot meal, wash laundry, take a shower, and recuperate in a safe environment. The youth have access to case management and counseling services, and are connected to relevant referrals and services as identified by staff. Youth also have access to a computer lab, recreational activities, and a resource library while in the Youth Shelter and Drop-In Center.