The mission of the NEPA Youth Shelter is to provide quality emergency shelter and related services to unaccompanied youth ages 14 through high school graduation from all counties in NEPA. The Shelter will provide essentials such as food, clothing, and bathrooms, as well as services such as educational support, counseling, family reunification, and/or preparation for independent living. With a focus on social justice and advocacy, the Shelter will be welcoming to youth from all backgrounds and especially affirming to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) youth, as this population constitutes a high percentage of homeless youth in our area.
Our Vision
Our vision is under construction.
Our Core Values
We believe all youth deserve a safe, inclusive environment where they are supported, respected, and empowered to grow. We chose these Core Values to remind us of the important work we do:
Safety: because every young person we encounter deserves a Safe Space, to be themselves and to belong
Inclusion: because belonging to a meaningful community is important to all young people
Diversity: because differences in people make our community more beautiful
Empowerment: because we want every young person to feel like they own their lives and decisions within their lives
Social Justice: because we stand for what is right, fair and deserving to every young person
Our Mission
About Us
The NEPA Youth Shelter is a safe, supportive space for young people who need stability, compassion, and community. We provide resources, guidance, and a caring environment where every teen is respected, valued, and given the chance to grow. Here, you’re not alone — you’re part of our family.
Our History
NEPA Youth Shelter was founded in response to the growing number of LGBTQ+ teens in our region facing homelessness, family rejection, and unsafe living situations. What began as a small community effort to provide acceptance, safety, and basic needs has grown into a full youth-centered support network.
Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity, & Inclusion
We are committed to creating a space where all youth—regardless of their race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, or background—are met with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Diversity is not just something we acknowledge; it’s something we actively celebrate.
At the Shelter, differences are honored, identities are affirmed, and all youth is welcomed as family.
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