The only program of its kind in Pend Oreille County, Youth Emergency Services (Y.E.S.) supports youth from ages 12 to 18 in finding safe living conditions. Y.E.S. believes that all youth deserve love, respect and a living environment free of violence, drugs and exploitation. Y.E.S. serves youth afflicted by poverty and homelessness, offering emergency or long-term housing, clothing, food, educational support, court advocacy and assistance navigating the healthcare system.
Y.E.S. received a $5,000 Rapid Response grant from Innovia Foundation to help with operating expenses and transportation reimbursement. Y.E.S. staff and volunteers transport youth to medical appointments approximately 260 times per year. Because quality health care is not always available in Pend Oreille County, these appointments frequently require a trip to Spokane County. The grant will help cover these travelling costs.
“Y.E.S. works closely with host home providers, school officials, law enforcement agencies and medical professionals to ensure each youth’s needs are met,” says Kristy Tucker, a Youth Advocate for Y.E.S. “Through counseling and court advocacy, family stabilization, reunification and the safety of each youth are the primary goals of Y.E.S. Youth are engaged in services until the youth and case manager feel they are in a safe, stable situation and appropriate transition plans are in place.”