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Oasis for Youth provides homeless and precariously-housed youth of the south metro area with referrals to crisis intervention services, emergency shelter and offers onsite support as well as on-site activities by caring volunteers in a safe environment.
The vision of Oasis for Youth is that all youth will have safe and stable housing with access to appropriate services in their home community in order to complete their education.
Our long term goal is an emergency shelter in a permanent location in southern Hennepin County that is staffed with trained social workers and counselors. Licensed host homes is an option we are researching for youth who are able to succeed in that setting. Family reunification will be pursued when possible. Appropriate referrals will be made for chemical dependency and mental health treatment.
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Who are the homeless youth? |
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 According to the Wilder Foundation Research on Homelessness in Minnesota, on any given night, an estimated 550 – 650 unaccompanied youth aged 17 and under are without shelter in Minnesota. At the present time there are approximately 50 emergency shelter beds designated for homeless and runaway youth in Hennepin County. There are 0 beds in the South Hennepin County suburbs.
(Click on the W to open the full report.)
At Oasis for Youth, we believe that all youth are valued and deserve to have safe and stable housing with access to appropriate services in their communities, in order to complete their education. Sometimes reasons for homelessness in youth are quite varied and frequently beyond their control. These often invisible youth are some of the most vulnerable in our communities.
Bloomington, Edina and Richfield have youth who are homeless. We are here to help.
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Oasis for Youth is a drop-in center where youth will find caring adults to help them deal with the challenges they’re facing. Initially run completely by volunteers, Oasis for Youth will be hiring some staff soon, but the need for help from community members will remain high. In addition, we will always need funders to help cover costs of items we are unable to get donated.
It is our hope that community members from Richfield, Bloomington, Edina and Eden Prairie will be involved in making Oasis for Youth a success. Individuals, congregations, service organizations and other groups are all welcome to help! A few possibilities are:
 Help introduce Oasis to others- Work directly with youth
- Conduct a donation drive
- Serve on the advisory board
- Provide technological support
- Join a marketing, fundraising, or other committee
Click here for full information on volunteer needs, our Wish List, and how to donate.
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