Teams of peer outreach workers scout the streets, alleys, vacant buildings, and other areas frequented by youth providing them with assistance, intervention and access to basic needs (food, clothing, shelter, and hygiene items), transportation to medical care and recreational activities, and linkages to other appropriate services.

SOS also operates a free, on-site drop-in center Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. The Youth Drop-In Center provides respite to street youth, where they can receive a hot meal, wash laundry, take a shower, and recuperate in a safe place. Activities offered include job readiness workshops, computer literacy classes, and healthy relationships clinics. The drop-in center networks with its community partners such as EOC's Health Services Clinic, Workforce Connection, Goodwill Industries, California Job Corps and Marjaree Mason Center to sponsor these youth development activities. Outdoor recreation, fitness and field trips serve a big role in meeting the social and wellness needs of the youth participants.

The Youth Drop-In Center has also developed a cultural arts center offering theater arts, music and dance to attract youth off the streets and provide them with a format to express their self in a positive, healthy and supporting environment.

The Youth Drop-In Center is available to youth 11 to 17 years old on Wednesdays afternoon and to young adults between 18-21 years of age on Tuesday and Thursday afternoon.

Eligibility:

• Must be a transient runaway, homeless or street youth; 11-21 years of age.