Ryan’s Second Story

“Ryan” was just 15 years old and home was not a safe place to be. His mother was struggling with substance abuse, and he was enduring physical abuse at home. Child Protective Services removed Ryan from his mother’s care, and he was brought to our Second Story for Teens in Crisis.

While Ryan stayed at the shelter, our staff worked with a social worker assigned to his case to make sure he was informed every step of the way about what was happening. It’s a very frightening thing to not know what will become of you or where you will be living. Ryan talked to our counselors about his fears and concerns. We were able to provide him with safe and secure housing while a foster family was located by Child Protective Services.

A new family was located, and Ryan prepared for his big move while staying with us. He was able to meet and get to know them before he went to live with them. When the day came, Ryan left our shelter feeling optimistic and excited about his new future.

Need Help?

If you need help right away, our 24/7 hotline provides support and referrals to services in the Washington DC metro area.
Call 1-800-SAY-TEEN or text “TEENHELP” to 855-11

Your Impact

We make every dollar count. The direct support of young people, their families and their communities, is our first priority. Here are examples of how your donation may be used.

$20,000

  • Three high school students experiencing homelessness receive a full year of rental assistance and support services so they can remain in school and graduate with their class.

$1,000

  • One teenager receives a safe haven, warm bed, food, and round-the-clock support for five nights at Second Story for Teens in Crisis, or
  • Eight months of therapy for a young woman in the Second Story for Young Mothers program.

$500

  • One teen receives daily counseling during a three-week stay at Second Story for Teens in Crisis, or
  • Twenty counseling sessions for the children and teens who are at-risk and participating in our after-school programs.

$100

  • Three teens receive a therapy session at Second Story for Teens in Crisis, or
  • Two weeks of food for a young mother and her child at Second Story for Young Mothers.

Thank you for your support!