YSS Iowa Homeless Youth Center

YSS - Iowa Homeless Youth Center (IHYC) is a facility for adolescents experiencing homelessness in addition to mental health and substance use disorders. For over 45 years, YSS has provided education, counseling, and housing services for adolescents and families in need. The Youth Homeless Center’s main goal involves eliminating homelessness among youth in Iowa, providing the necessary resources to help them gain independence and break the cycle of poverty. IHYC offers specialized mental health counseling to help adolescents receive the essential care they need to achieve greater stability and independence. The center has case managers who assist patients in reaching their educational goals, providing support such as tutoring, financial aid, and additional resources. YSS’s Ember Recovery addiction treatment program uses evidence-based treatments and individualized care, teaching youth healthy relapse prevention strategies. Gender-responsive care, family involvement, and a cozy environment ensure that patients feel supported and at ease throughout their recovery journey. IHYC provides a variety of services centered around supporting adolescents who are experiencing homelessness, regardless of where they are in their recovery journey or how open they are to receiving help. The organization provides nine emergency beds and offers off-site apartments for young adults in need, ensuring safe and supportive housing options. Drop-in services include showers, laundry services, hygiene items, free meals, job assistance, and additional resources.