Alternative House is a place where children and youth can receive temporary shelter and safely work through family problems that have separated them. Males, Females ages 10 up to 18 who may have endured abuse or neglect, or may have been homeless, a runaway, or have been pushed out of their home. Whatever the cause, they are in crisis. They may be scared and lonely, have serious problems and limited resources to deal with them. While at the emergency shelter, youth receive individual, group and family counseling; transportation to and from their home school every day of the school year; and recreation. Efforts are made to resolve the situation that brought them to Alternative House.
To make a referral contact:
“Promises” is the open residential, long term care program at Alternative House that offers youth a caring, structured therapeutic environment, transportation to and from school, skills training, case management and support to prepare them for their next steps in life.
Youth are referred by the Department of Child Services & Department of Juvenile Justice they are age 14 to 20, males and females. Young people may be referred from throughout the state of Indiana.
To make a referral contact:
feliciae@crisiscenterysb.org or
219-938-7070
Follow-up calls have been made since 1992 to determine the outcomes for kids after they leave. In 2005, 99% were reported as doing well or moderately well 51% were back home 97% were in school 48% were in counseling. Outcome measures done from 1998-2004 by an outside consultant indicated that Alternative House achieved the highest satisfaction and concluded that "The Crisis Center (Alternative House) provides a safe and therapeutic place for children to be placed temporarily."
Alternative House provides time and space to think, find alternatives and make choices. Supportive staff, professional counseling, and problem-solving help can make the difference in a young life. Our goal is to set youth on a path to a happier future.
For More Information or a Site Visit: E-mail feliciae@crisiscenterysb.org
Contact Info. for Alternative House:
Call 219-938-7070 (24 hrs).
Fax: 219-938-7503
Referrals feliciae@crisiscenterysb.org