November was declared National Homeless Youth Awareness Month in 2007. 1 in 30 youth, between the ages 12-17, will experience homelessness in a year. There is a lot of social and emotional growth that happens during the ages 12-17 for youth, which becomes severely impacted when youth are faced with housing instability.
Pete’s Place is a safe place for homeless and runaway youth, ages 12-17, in Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Antrim, Benzie, & Leelanau counties. While at Pete’s Place youth are able to take the space they need and work with staff to figure out what their next
step is, which can range from reuniting with family to moving out independently.
Conflict at home with family members, being unable to get their needs met, couch surfing, and so many other circumstances may lead youth to Pete’s Place. Staff is able to help youth in crisis by meeting their basic needs with a warm bed, meals, and providing clothing and hygiene supplies. Each youth also receives counseling services and are able to work on strengthening life skills.
Pete’s Place helps keep youth connected to their community supports by providing transportation to school, work, or appointments. Youth are able to receive the individualized support that they need to work towards goals that they would like to achieve. Staff members at Pete’s Place help support the youth in these goals using a trauma informed and person-centered approach.
-Kiersten Mead