Youth and Family Services (YFS) YMCA is an independent social services branch of the Channel Islands YMCA. The youth and families we serve have experienced homelessness, abandonment, neglect, poverty, and mental health challenges. We emphasize programs that enrich and meet the needs of each youth and family. YFS has provided bilingual and bicultural programming for 20 years and has four core programs serving these at-risk youth.

Noah's Anchorage is a youth crisis and homeless prevention shelter for youth ages 12-17. Our staff work alongside youth and their families to provide case management, education and housing support, life skills coaching, conflict mediation and much more all low/no-barrier and free of charge. Working from a holistic, positive youth development approach, services are individualized, strengths-based and designed to meet immediate and long-term needs. Both residential and non-residential services are intended to support physical, educational, and social-emotional well-being.

My Home is a transitional-age program for youth 16-24 designed to reduce homelessness so youth have a safe place to live, a reliable system of support, a sense of purpose, and the self-sufficiency skills needed to live independently. The My Home program prevents homelessness for those that are at-risk and/or marginally housed and provides timely intervention for those currently homeless. Services include Housing linkages and support, Financial literacy, Educational support, Employment assistance, Skill development, Health & wellness referrals, Community engagement, and Basic needs supplies. All services are tailored to each clients unique circumstance, inherent strengths, and goals for the future.

The Street Outreach and Support program provides services to youth and young adults age 12-24 who are homeless or at risk for becoming homeless. Staff provide resources in the community via a mobile outreach team in downtown Santa Barbara and Isla Vista, and at our drop-in center located at Noah's Anchorage Youth Shelter. Our drop-in center operates 9am - 1pm, 5 days a week. Services include Nutritious food, Hygiene supplies, Laundry services, Personal storage, Clothing, Counseling services, Case management, Referrals for care, Computer and internet access, and Vocational support.

St. George Youth Center has been serving Isla Vista and Goleta youth and families since 1998, providing a safe, fun, alternative space for teens during the high-risk after-school hours. Our goal is to create a space where all youth and teens feel safe, supported and empowered to be the best version of themselves. The youth center is open to young people in grades 5th -12th, and we support the strength and achievement of youth and their families through a variety of educational, recreational, cultural and leadership opportunities.

Between our four programs, we are making a difference in our community and would appreciate your support to continue our efforts!

Check out our website for more information: YFS-CIYMCA Website