Homeless Youth Services

Under Family Service Agency’s Youth Programming department, the Roots to Rise Shelter & Transitional Living Program provides safe, supportive, and trauma-informed housing services for youth and young people experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Through emergency shelter and transitional living support, we help participants build stability, develop independent living skills, and access the resources needed to achieve long-term self-sufficiency and permanent housing.
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Our Programs

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Roots to Rise

Roots to Rise provides a safe, supportive, and trauma-informed environment for youth experiencing housing instability. Our emergency shelter serves youth ages 14–17, offering immediate safety, basic needs, and individualized support focused on stabilization and family reunification when appropriate.
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Transitional Living Program

Transitional Living Program (TLP) supports young people ages 18–24 in building independence through stable housing, case management, life skills development, education and employment support, and connection to long-term resources. The program is designed to help participants successfully transition into self-sufficiency and permanent housing.

24/7 Youth Runaway and Lockout Support

Comprehensive Community-Based Youth Services (CCBYS)

Our 24/7 crisis hotline is here to support youth and families during critical moments. The CCBYS program is designed to promote family reunification, stabilize home environments, and prevent deeper involvement in the child welfare or juvenile justice systems.

Who is eligible for CCBYS services?

Youth ages 11 to 17 who meet any of the following criteria:

  • Are at risk of involvement with child welfare or juvenile justice systems
  • Have been locked out or are not allowed to return home
  • Have run away from home
  • Are beyond parental control and facing immediate physical danger
  • Are homeless and not in the care of a parent or guardian

What happens when you call?

Our trained crisis response team partners with law enforcement, DCFS, medical professionals, and community members to ensure the youth’s immediate safety. We conduct comprehensive crisis, safety, and mental health assessments to help determine next steps and identify safe shelter options.
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Street Outreach

Our team also conducts street outreach to identify and engage youth who may be experiencing homelessness or are at risk. Through outreach efforts, we provide essential supplies, crisis intervention, resource connection, and referrals to shelter and supportive services, with the goal of meeting youth where they are and building trust to connect them to ongoing support.

Youth Resources

The Youth Referral Guide was created by the Community Youth Services (CYS) Youth Committee at Family Service Agency to help young people find support when they need it. It highlights local programs and organizations in and around DeKalb County that offer services like physical and mental health support, court and probation resources, basic needs assistance, faith and community groups, and opportunities for volunteering and employment.

This guide is designed for youth ages 11–24 and will be shared in places where young people already spend time. Our goal is to make it easier to understand what resources are available, how to access them, and what to expect when reaching out for help.

Learn More
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Contact Us

P: 815-687-8993

E: R2R@fsadekalbcounty.org