Larkin Opportunities for Transition (The LOFT)

The LOFT is a single-site, nine bed transitional living program designed to meet the needs of homeless and runaway youth ages 15-17. The home is considered a transitional living situation because it provides the resources necessary to support at-risk adolescents to successfully transition into adulthood. The LOFT provides a long-term housing solution for youth who do not have the option of returning home, usually due to violence.

Most of the adolescents who come to the LOFT have suffered from some form of abuse or extreme neglect and many of the adolescents struggle with substance abuse issues. The LOFT provides services to deal with these sensitive issues while also providing an environment that is as close to a healthy, real life home environment as possible. Housed in an old Victorian building, the LOFT program places strong emphasis on preparing adolescents to live independent and healthy lives after they turn 18. The program uses a system of natural rewards and consequences that reinforce positive behavior and incentivize program participants to meet the goals they have set for themselves with support from program staff.

To provide a shelter and services that assist homeless and runaway youth to transition into a stable living situation.

In 2009, the LOFT served 21 youth and provided more than 1,000 counseling sessions. The average time an adolescent spent in the LOFT was a little more than one year. Half of the youth served at the LOFT were Latino, and 43% were born outside of the United States. Among youth who exited the program, 90% transitioned into a stable living situation.