YFA operates three short-term shelter programs for youth between the ages of 10 thru 17. Our shelters are open to youth who are runaway or homeless or youth in need of a short- term out of home respite placement for any reason. Each of the three shelters also accepts youth who are in need of an emergency shelter placement due to abuse and/or neglect and for youth in foster care who have experienced a disruption in their foster placement. Shelter services are provided for up to fourteen days.

The program does not accept youth who has a history of violent behavior or ones that are combative or has a felony conviction. The program will not accept youth who are intoxicated by alcohol or other drugs. Youth who have suicidal ideations or severe psychiatric or developmental challenges are referred for more appropriate services.

The program provides 24 hour, 7 day a week admission services, youth supervision, food, clothing if needed, crisis counseling, life skills education, individual and family counseling, recreation and leisure time activities and case management services. Educational services are provided by the local school district in the county in which the shelter is located. Youth and their families are expected to actively participate in program services and abide by program rules. There is no fee for program services.

The program serves as a short-term placement for youth in crisis. After leaving the shelter, youth and their family may be referred for continued family counseling through the YFA Family Services outpatient programs.

For more information or to make a referral for services contact:
Runaway Alternatives Project (RAP)
7522 Plathe Road
New Port Richey, Florida 34653
Telephone (727) 835-1777
Toll Free (800) 226-7187
Serving Pasco County

New Beginnings Youth Shelter
18377 Clinton Blvd.
Brooksville, Florida 34601
Telephone (352) 797-7566
Toll Free (800) 506-4303
Serving Citrus, Hernando, Sumter Counties

George W. Harris, Jr. Runaway and Youth Crisis Shelter
1060 US Highway 17 South
Bartow, Florida 33830
Telephone (863) 595-0220
Toll Free (800) 786-8614
Serving Hardee, Highlands and Polk Counties