Basic Center Services
The Basic Center Program is a federally funded program offered by Children’s Home + Aid that provides temporary emergency shelter, crisis intervention, individual and family counseling, and aftercare services to runaway and homeless youth between the ages of 10 and 17. Youth may self refer to the program or may be referred by the police, schools, shelters, or other community providers. Services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Basic Center Program focuses on addressing the issues that led to running away or to being homeless. When family reunification is not possible, the program will work with youth in arranging alternative housing through either an emergency foster home, shelter, or another temporary living arrangement. Cash assistance is available and can be used to help with rental assistance, utilities, furnishings, food, and positive youth activities. Basic Center youth are also assisted in developing life skills to live independently. Educational and employment goals are also addressed.
The Basic Center Program is offered out of our two Southern Region offices:
Regional Office Children’s Home + Aid 2133 Johnson Road Suite 104 Granite City, IL 62040 618-452-8900
Belleville Office Children’s Home + Aid 120 East A Street Belleville, IL 62220 618-235-5335
For more information, please contact Linda White at lwhite@childrenshomeandaid.org or 618-452-8900, ext. 140.
The Basic Center Program is offered in the Southern Region.
Keeping Homeless Youth Off The Streets
The need for runaway and homeless youth services is significant, as the number of homeless youth dramatically exceeds the current service capacity in Illinois and in the targeted service area of St. Clair and Madison counties. Runaway and locked out youth typically face numerous health and other problems including nutritional deficiencies, inadequate sleep, exposure to the elements, medical problems, physical assault and theft, substance abuse, and dangerous sexual behavior, including exploitation.
