Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Ark Cottages

Please join us on Tuesday, September 21 from 4:00 - 6:00 pm as we celebrate the groundbreaking for our three new cottages (nine apartments total) for homeless young adults. The ceremony will be held at 751 Pleasant Avenue - bring the family for music and refreshments. Call 381-9800 for more information.

 

Homeless Youth Program

 

The Homeless Youth Program serves youth 16-20 in Calhoun, Kalamazoo, Barry, St. Joseph, Allegan, Branch, Cass, Berrien, Van Buren and Eaton counties. Services include skill development and assistance with affordable and safe housing, education and employment.

Transitional Living Program

The Transitional Living Program serves youth ages 16-21 in Kalamazoo County. We assist youth who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless by enabling them to become stable adults through a wide variety of services. These may include assistance with living skills, aid in finding housing and support in maintaining a positive housing environment. We offer weekly “Life Skills Groups” to help youth form friendships, build support systems and develop essential life skills.

Youth in Transition Program

The Youth in Transition Program serves youth 14-20 who are exiting the foster care system in Van Buren County. We provide support services to help these youth develop education, employment and life skills. For more information call 269-381-9800, ext.112.

How We Help Youth

Case Management

Case managers support youth on an individual basis, helping them to establish person-centered plans, developed around their personal situation and needs.

Life Skills

Support services are offered to help youth develop essential independent living skills, such as money management, household maintenance, interviewing and resume skills and locating safe and affordable housing. These skills are learned through weekly groups and through one on one relationships.

Emergency Supplies

Youth receive personal hygiene supplies such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap and lotion. Some clothing and nonperishable food items are also available on a limited basis. Referrals are provided as needed to ensure all youth receive necessary supplies.

Housing Opportunities Portage Street House Three transitional housing apartments in a house on Portage Street in Kalamazoo for young adults. The Ark Shelter The Ark is a only short-term, voluntary shelter serving nine counties in southwest Michigan.  Youth ages 10-17 who have run away, are in danger of becoming homeless or who are in a crisis situation are eligible. Counseling and support services are offered to youth and their families. Caring Network Apartments Transitional living apartments for pregnant and/or parenting women who are participating in the Caring Network program. Counseling Professional mental health counseling is available through Bridges. Community Outreach Staff members are available to come to your school or organization to provide information about all the services offered by The Ark.