Follow-up is not always possible when working with at-risk and homeless youth. Some need only a one-time resource and then they’re gone while others may be in and out of services for months or years. One young lady, “Krystal” (not her real name), came to us in need of numerous services. She was recently homeless, staying in shelters or with friends. When we met her, she had a potential job lined up but did not have any clothes or transportation to help her with the upcoming interview. We talked to Krystal, providing her with encouragement and support, clothing, bus passes and food. She was extremely thankful and very humble… but we didn’t see her again.
About two months later, a staff member was on an errand to get supplies. At a store’s checkout counter, the cashier and the staff member recognized each other. It was Krystal! After quick hellos, she stated that she was doing really well, she was hired after the interview that we helped her get to and was grateful, stable, safe, and happy.
Krystal’s diligence and courage, along with the support we provided, enabled her to transition out of homelessness. Sometimes what seems like the smallest of services can have a large impact on our community’s most vulnerable youth. Quite often, we never see the results of our efforts. When we do, as with this chance encounter with Krystal, it is incredibly validating and rewarding.
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