On Tuesday, May 20th, elected officials and representatives of youth-serving organizations visited YSI’s Teen Lounge at Youth Emergency Service (YES) for the program’s grand opening. Thomas and David, two teenage members of the lounge’s Youth Advisory Committee, led Michael Walker, Chief Counsel for Congressman Chaka Fattah, and City Councilman David Oh on a tour of the YES teen shelter and then spoke with the event attendees about the lounge’s purpose and its importance for vulnerable teens. Mr. Walker, Councilman Oh, and Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown thanked the committee members for their dedication to providing support and resources to youth in Philadelphia. Click here to see photos from the event on Facebook.
On Monday, June 2nd, the lounge will open to youth ages 12 to 21 who are current or former YES residents or in need of a safe space. The program will operate Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Youth may visit the lounge to do homework, apply for jobs, access YES’ housing or medical services, or simply hang out and play cards or video games. The program will offer food and beverages, a cell phone charging station, a computer area, and a variety of workshops. Parents between 12 and 21 are welcome to bring their children and must supervise them at all times. For more information about the Teen Lounge at Youth Emergency Service, please contact Adam Safer at 215-222-3262 x19 or asafer@ysiphila.org.