Welcome! Thank you for your interest in YES’s Host Home Program.
We know from research that youth experiencing homelessness are best supported when they are able to remain in the communities where they are comfortable, have friends, attend school, and go to work. For this reason, the goal of the YES Host Home program is to recruit, screen, and provide support to volunteers who are willing to open their homes to young people ages 13 through 24 in their own communities who are experiencing homelessness or have unstable housing (13 to 17 year olds will be able to participate with authorization from their parents or guardians).
Being a host is a powerful and unique experience, and far from being easy. The commitment you are willing to make in order to be a host volunteer is an intense one, as is that of a youth who is moving into a host home. In turn, it will hopefully prove to be a gratifying and empowering experience for all involved.
YES is committed to keeping you informed, being clear about expectations, being up front and honest about decisions made regarding your application, listening to your concerns and feedback, respecting your input, finding the best match for you and a youth, and providing ongoing support and training.
Please carefully read the information included in this packet. There is an application form, eligibility requirements, and questions to ponder before getting started. Once we receive the returned packet from you, we will read your application, start the background checks, and set up time for an initial interview. Two representatives of the program will screen applicants and do the initial interview.
Again, thank you so much for wanting to be a part of this program. It is only through the generosity, spirit of solidarity and commitment of people like you that we are able to offer safe and affirming homes to youth.
The YES Team
Host Home Families can be assured that they will be provided 24/7 support from YES staff. We will also provide support and interventions as needed to ensure a successful outcome for all involved.
You can see our Host Home Handbook here .
For more information on becoming a Host Home, you can download our application here: You can also contact YES at 509-447-1125 or info@yesteensupport.com.