Runaway and Homeless Shelter

The Runaway and Homeless Youth Shelter at St. Anne Institute is a residential facility specifically designed to provide temporary shelter, safety, and support for young individuals under the age of 18 who have run away from home or are experiencing homelessness. This shelter is a critical resource for the vulnerable youth who may be facing dangerous or unstable living situations and need a safe place to stay. 

The program serves individuals primarily in Albany County and surrounding counties. At St. Anne’s our program is tailored to meet the unique needs of the local community and adhere to state and federal guidelines for youth shelters. 

The goal of the Runaway and Homeless Youth Shelter at St. Anne Institute is to provide a supportive and nurturing environment where young individuals can begin the process of addressing any of the issues that led to their homelessness or running away, while also helping them work towards achieving stability and a positive future. 

Services and Features of a Runaway and Homeless Youth Shelter: 

Safe Accommodation: Our program offers a safe and secure environment for young individuals. They have a temporary place to sleep, access to restroom and shower facilities, and are protected from potential risks on the streets. 
Necessities: Those served in the shelter receive nutritious meals, clothing, personal hygiene products, and other essential items to meet their basic needs. 
Case Management: Each resident is assigned a case manager who works with them to assess their situation, understand the reasons for their homelessness or running away, and develop a plan for their future.

Education Support: Our staff collaborate with local schools and educational programs to ensure that youth have access to schooling or tutoring services while in the shelter. 
Counseling and Support Services: Runaway and homeless youth may have experienced trauma or face emotional challenges. The shelter can provide access to counseling and emotional support to help them process their experiences and work towards healing. 
Recreation and Activities: The Runaway and Homeless Youth Shelter offers recreational and social activities to promote positive social interactions and create a sense of community among the residents. 
Family Reconnection: If it is safe and appropriate, our staff may work to mediate and support family reunification, aiming to resolve conflicts and address underlying issues that lead to the youth running away or becoming homeless. 
Referrals and Collaborations: The shelter collaborates with local organizations and agencies to connect youth with additional services, such as medical care, substance abuse counseling, legal aid, or housing programs.

Transitional Planning: As youth approach the age limit for staying in the shelter (usually 18), the program assists in creating a transition plan to ensure they have a stable living arrangement and support system in place after leaving the shelter.

Confidentiality and Rights: 

The Runaway and Homeless Youth Shelter at St. Anne Institute prioritizes the safety and confidentiality of the youth they serve. The shelter staff at St. Anne Institute adheres to the laws protecting the privacy and rights of minors. and they generally do not disclose information about residents without their consent, except in cases where reporting is required by law (e.g., suspected child abuse or imminent danger to oneself or others). 

Shelter Intake and Information: 518-437-6581

Street Outreach

The Street Outreach Program at St. Anne Institute is a community-based initiative designed to reach out to and support individuals under the age of 21, who are experiencing homelessness, street life, or other forms of unsheltered living. This program aims to connect with vulnerable populations, who may be at risk or facing challenges due to their circumstances. Our primary reach is the City of Albany and the surrounding areas.  

Our program operates with a team of trained staff who actively engage with individuals on the streets, in parks, or in other public places where homeless or at-risk youth might gather. The effectiveness of this program relies on building trust and meeting the individuals where they are, recognizing their autonomy, and offering a range of services.   

Our goal is to empower youth to make positive changes in their lives while respecting their dignity and autonomy. 

The Key Components of the Street Outreach Program are: 

Outreach and Engagement: Outreach workers actively search for and approach young people in need, providing a non-judgmental and compassionate presence. They initiate conversations and build rapport, aiming to understand their unique situation, challenges, and aspirations. 
Basic Needs Support: The program provides immediate assistance with essential needs such as food, water, clothing, hygiene products, and blankets. By addressing these basic needs, the program establishes a foundation for further assistance and engagement. 
Crisis Intervention: Outreach workers are trained to handle crisis situations and connect individuals with appropriate services, including medical care or emergency shelter if needed. 
Access to Housing Services: The program assists youth in finding safe and stable housing options. This may involve connecting them with emergency shelters, transitional housing, or permanent supportive housing programs based on their circumstances.

Education and Employment Services: The outreach team helps young individuals access education and job-related resources to empower them with skills and opportunities for self-sufficiency. 
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Support: For those facing mental health challenges or struggling with substance abuse, our program can connect them with counseling, treatment, and support services. 
Legal Aid and Advocacy: Our outreach workers can provide them with information on how to connect with the Legal Aid Society in Northeastern New York to help young individuals navigate legal challenges or access their rights and entitlements. 
Follow-up and Aftercare: The program maintains ongoing contact with the individuals it serves, ensuring continued support and assistance in the process of reintegrating into society. 
Collaboration with Community Organizations: Our Street Outreach Program at St. Anne Institute often collaborate with local organizations, government agencies, and other non-profits to leverage additional resources and provide a comprehensive network of support.

It’s essential to note that the effectiveness of a Street Outreach Program relies on building trust and meeting the individuals where they are, recognizing their autonomy, and offering a range of voluntary services. The goal is to empower youth to make positive changes in their lives while respecting their dignity and autonomy.