Meet Me At The Crossroads

Teenage homelessness presents additional challenges that create difficult barriers to navigate.

The Crossroads Program at the Children’s Attention Home provides safe shelter, opportunities, and resources to youth who do not have reliable housing. These youth lack secure resources needed to transition into adulthood, and through the Crossroads program they receive the guidance and support they need to become successfully and sustainably independent.

"I’d heard about the program and knew I needed a change,” stated Sara*. “I really need this kind of support in my life right now. I appreciate how everyone pushes me to be motivated.”

The program offers free housing, clothing and meals while assisting youths with appropriate medical, dental, vision and mental health care. Moreover, the youths are encouraged to participate in life skills coaching and assessments; including educational and career goal settings and opportunities.

While part of the Crossroads program, Sara* was able to earn her GED and driver’s permit in record time. She passed her GED exam in less than 30 days. Additionally, she set a record by scoring the highest score on one section of the examination.

“At first my motivation was for my success to be about doing it my way. I wanna be me and never change. But being in this program has help me see how good a support system is. It’s okay to listen to others at times. I have learned about saving money,” commented Sara*. “Some of the other kids were shocked about having to save 40% of their income. I was happy about that, because I wanna buy a car soon. I like the fact that I have to put this money up for goal setting. I want to use this money to attend college, get an apartment, and stuff like that.”

The participants in this program often experience growing pains while building trust and life skills that may differ from what they have known. While learning these new skills can be challenging, they help set the foundation for healthy transition into independence and adulthood.

“It has always been a privilege to be present when someone is meeting their personal goals of sustainable independence,” beamed Program Social Worker Cathy Bolduc. “We are their cheerleaders through both times of joy and when there are speed bumps on the road of life.”