Aljazeera America compiled a list (visit project-aljazeera) of resources available for homeless youth in Philadelphia that offer support services and basic necessities. Including shelter, food, healthcare and mental health services, computer access, legal services, domestic violence services and arts/education programs for those in need.

The listing is part of their project “Philly’s invisible youth” — The child welfare system continues to fail homeless kids, a first-person account of youth homelessness in Philadelphia from journalist Laura Rena Murray.

With the holiday season upon us this is the best time to share it.

For sleeping:

Covenant House


Offers emergency shelter for youth 18 to 21 years old. Services include an on-site health clinic, case management and education and vocational services. Walk-ins accepted. No ID required. Open 24/7.


Address: 31 E. Armat Street, Philadelphia, PA 19144.

Phone: (215) 951-5411 or (888) 829-1249

Website: www.covenanthousepa.org


Pathways PA


Offers emergency shelter for girls 13 to 17 years old. Drop-in lounge for girls open from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. 


Address: 5013 Hazel Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19143.

Phone: 215-397-4287

Website: www.pathwayspa.org



PEC/Gloria’s Place


Offers emergency shelter for women 18+ years old who are pregnant or with children; youth referred by DHS. Services include food, clothing, health care, school supplies, books, play spaces for kids, library and computer lab. ID, social security card and birth certificate required. Open 24/7.


Address: 3902 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104.

Phone: 267-777-5867

Website: www.pec-cares.org


Youth Emergency Service (YES)


Offers emergency shelter for youth 12 to 17 years old for up to 21 days. Services include crisis management, family mediation, referral services, medical care on Mondays, counseling on Tuesdays, food and clothing. Walk-ins accepted. No ID required. Youth are required to fill out paperwork for services and parents are notified within 72 hours of arrival. Open 24/7.


Address: 1526 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19130.

Phone: 215-787-0633

Website: www.ysiphila.org