Imagine a scenario where a teenager is forced out of their family home due to ongoing conflicts with family. After couch surfing with friends, the teen runs out of options and turns to a teacher for help, feeling lost and alone. At this critical juncture, two divergent paths emerge.
Youth in housing crises are highly susceptible to exploitation and abuse, even in the safest shelters they can be influenced by a street-involved peer group. Spending just one night in a shelter significantly heightens the risk of long-term homelessness. Due to overcapacity in shelters and unaffordable housing options, young people often find themselves in precarious living situations where abuse is more likely.
This is where the Nightstop program steps in. Nightstop connects vulnerable young individuals facing homelessness with trained volunteer hosts who offer a warm meal, a safe place to rest, and a chance to rebuild their trust in humanity.
With a successful track record spanning over 30 years in the UK, Durham Youth Services (DYS) recently introduced the Nightstop program to Durham Region. The program not only provides essential shelter but also delivers invaluable support (Read the report “More Than Bednights“).
While reuniting with family is the primary aim when home is a safe option, alternative housing plans are devised for cases where family reintegration is not feasible. This collective effort taps into community goodwill and resources, providing a nurturing environment that fosters belonging and stability crucial for the well-being of young individuals.
The Nightstop program offers a proactive approach to homelessness by intervening early in a crisis to secure safe temporary housing for youth, steering them away from shelters or sleeping rough on the streets. Durham Youth Services relies on our community of volunteers to provide their homes as a safe place for youth in need of respite accommodation.
By engaging the community as “Hosts” for youth in dire need, Durham Youth Services ensures a thorough risk assessment process before matching them with suitable hosts. Community members open their homes for short-term stays, with ongoing support from Durham Youth Services’ staff for both hosts and youth throughout the process.
In addition to providing support to youth at this pivotal moment in their lives, involving community members as Volunteer Hosts and Drivers cultivates empathy and understanding towards homeless youth’s challenges, creating a support network that extends beyond temporary housing to offer avenues for education, employment, and personal growth.
Hosts offer a private bedroom, access to laundry and bathroom facilities, and three meals (dinner, breakfast, and a packed lunch) when hosting youth. They are compensated $35 per night to cover meal expenses. Volunteer Hosts undergo a thorough vetting process to safeguard the well-being of young individuals. This involves interviews, contacting two references, submission of a Vulnerable Sector Check, a home inspection conducted by DYS, and evaluation by a selection committee for final approval. Additionally, they must complete mandatory training to improve their ability to assist youth in need of a safe environment.
Volunteer Drivers play a crucial role in providing safe transportation for youth alongside a compassionate adult. Volunteer drivers provide safe transportation and often serve as the first point of contact for youth entering the Nightstop program. They will pick up and transport the youth to the Host’s home on the placement day. Before starting to transport a young person, Durham Youth Services will offer a comprehensive orientation outlining the role’s responsibilities.
Durham Youth Services’ staff play a crucial role in this effort by offering continuous support, guidance, and access to additional resources. Durham Youth Services’ Nightstop Volunteers have access to 24-hour emergency phone numbers for assistance and guidance. Additionally, Durham Youth Services will conduct regular check-ins and promote debriefing sessions to ensure our volunteers feel well-supported.
Through this holistic and community-driven approach, the Nightstop program not only prevents youth homelessness but also empowers young people to envision a brighter and more secure future. Together, we can build a society where every young person can flourish, free from the uncertainties and fears associated with homelessness.
And the young man mentioned at the beginning of this story, he not only found a secure place to rest for the night through but also enjoyed a nutritious meal that he assisted the host in preparing. He had a restful night’s sleep and began discussing his goals and next steps. Slowly, he started rebuilding his trust in others. His evening with the Durham Youth Services’ Nightstop program meant more than just a place to sleep.
To learn more about Durham Youth Services and the Nightstop program you can visit www.durhamyouth.com.