Boston has an extensive network of emergency services, transitional programs, and shelters created to combat homelessness, but the system is not designed to meet the needs of the youth population, ages 14-24.

Over the last two years, there has been a marked increase in the number of youth seeking shelter beds. Youth, however, do not belong in adult homeless shelters, yet there are no shelters in the Boston area specifically designed for youth over the age of 18. After a few weeks or months in adult homeless shelters, young people often resign themselves to a situation they view as inescapable.

To date, Bridge remains the only agency in the Boston area to provide a continuum of age-appropriate services to at-risk and homeless youth in a central location. Nowhere else in Boston can young adults take classes towards their GED, find a job with the assistance of a workforce developer, consult a professional counselor, or enter a cooperative apartment – all under the same roof.

Bridge Over Troubled Waters:

• Serves over 5,000 youth each year. 
• Is the first agency in the country to put a FREE Medical Van on the streets
• The Bridge Medical Van and core component of the Street Outreach Program has been replicated as a model throughout the country
• Is nationally recognized as an outstanding leader in the provision of services to troubled and homeless youth
• Bridge’s Runaway Program and Transitional Living Program have been cited as national models by the Federal Government
• Won the Harvard Award for Excellence in Children’s Health
• Has spearheaded initiatives and advocacy for HIV-infected youth which has gained national attention
• Is the only agency in the Boston area providing a comprehensive continuum of age appropriate services for runaway, homeless and at-risk youth