Youth CES Onboarding
Working in homeless services requires a unique person with a particular set of skills. You must know not only the area's different resources like food banks, local shelters, and transportation options, but also the criteria and eligibility requirements for housing resources. When working with the most vulnerable population, we must utilize evidence-based models like motivational interviewing, housing first, and client-centered approaches. Because through it all, we work alongside youth to promote a space to thrive, not simply survive. For easier access, we recommend Youth CES staff favoriting this page to support their work and to quickly identify helpful information for the youth and young adults we serve.
Background Knowledge
We recommend staff start off with YCES 101. This provides an overview of the homeless crisis in Los Angeles, clarifies LAHSA’s role, and shares information on basic terminologies. The training also touches on Housing First, Youth Empowerment, Harm Reduction, and Roles and Responsibilities. You will also learn more about LAHSA funded programs.
In addition to the YCES 101 training, we recommend trainings that go into greater details on the values lifted above and to do a deep dive into Motivational Interviewing. You can find the on-demand trainings and enroll here: Core Learning Path - Centralized Training Academy
To document homelessness: 7868 - Homelessness Verification Training Presentation https://www.lahsa.org/documents?id=7868-homelessness-verification-training-presentation.pdf
7816 - Tls Housing Acuity Index Assessment HMIS Guidance
7849 - Housing Acuity Index Assessment
Tools for Providers
Above you can find helpful information such as the Universal Housing Application.
UHA’s goal is to have one housing application for all PSH opportunities. Most resources are using this tool but some are still in process. Staff do not need to complete it unless “matched” when your client is matched you will get the notice to complete the UHA. UHA pulls information from HMIS and reduces duplication. Training not required BUT HIGHLY ENCOURAGED. Especially for IH & HN staff for example.
Resources To Assist Youth
Helpful information and messaging for youth we serve. We recommend sharing this page directly with youth: Youth CES Welcome & Resources
This page has helpful messaging and information for youth who are outside of our region: Out Of LA COC Guidance
5742 - Fy2024-2025 Safe Parking Sites
2196 - LAHSA Interim Housing List (English)
LACDMH Services for Transition Age Youth - Department of Mental Health
You can learn about various TAY resources including The Enhanced Emergency Shelter Program (EESP). This is a 60-day temporary shelter for Transition Age Youth (TAY) who are:
• between 18-25 years old
• homeless or at risk of homelessness in Los Angeles County
• experiencing mental health issues
• willing to seek mental health treatment
• no income or low income and unable to pay for housing
If interested, please call TAY Gatekeeper at (213) 738-6194
Youth between 10-17 years old can find services here Youth Services | 1736 Family Crisis Center
Youth Program Specific Pages
Here is the link for Scope of Required Services for Youth programs
Please note you will find under the Permanent Housing folder info on: Housing Navigation, Prevention & Time-Limited Subsidies.
Under Systems & Planning folder you will find: Campus Peer Navigation, DCFS & Probation System Liaisons, Connect LA, problem-solving, and regional coordination.
Several youth-focused programs have their own pages with more information. We recommend staff learning about each program to help better serve youth in offering the menu of options available to them.
Campus Peer Navigation information and work related to the Higher Education & Homeless Work Group can be found here: Higher Education Homeless Work Group
Dcfs & Probation System Liaison
Connect LA
If you are a Connect LA staff member or Campus Peer Navigator, please contact Chris Jenne cjenne@lahsa.org
If you are a DCFS/ Probation Liaison please contact Stephanie Grijalva sgrijalva@lahsa.org
If you are a Youth Housing Navigator, please contact Mychael Castillo mcastillo@lahsa.org
For YHDP support, please contact Sharonda Bush sbush@lahsa.org