WHAT WE DO
Caring for our Youth
We provide a nurturing and compassionate experience for children in our care, helping them heal and feel safe and secure
Act with Integrity
We are honest, respectful, and transparent
Responsible to our Community
We partner with those throughout our community and work together to advocate for our children
Excellence
We strive for operational excellence by maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards
Founded in 1972, Youth Haven was established to meet an urgent need for emergency shelter for children removed from unsafe and traumatic home environments. A group of dedicated community members, in partnership with law enforcement and local agencies, came together to create a safe place for children in crisis.
What began as a small emergency shelter has grown into a comprehensive therapeutic campus serving children and teens with complex needs.
Today, Youth Haven is Collier County’s only emergency and residential shelter, providing trauma-informed care for youth ages 6 to 21 on our 18.5-acre campus, with capacity to serve up to 74 children at a time.
- 150+ unduplicated youth served annually
- 24,000+ nights of care each year
- 67% arrive with a history of food insecurity
- 74 beds across 5 cottages
- 100% staff trained in trauma-informed care
- 24/7 care, 365 days a year
- Average length of stay is 7-9 months
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Youth Haven?
Youth Haven is Collier County’s only emergency and residential shelter for children and teens ages 6 to 21 who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or homelessness. We provide 24/7 care on a therapeutic campus where youth receive the support they need to heal and build brighter futures.
How long has Youth Haven been serving the community?
Founded in 1972, Youth Haven has been serving Southwest Florida for more than 50 years. What began as an emergency shelter has grown into a comprehensive therapeutic campus providing trauma-informed care for children and teens with complex needs.
What services does Youth Haven provide?
Youth Haven provides comprehensive, trauma-informed care including individual, group, and family therapy, academic support, life skills development, nutritious meals, and enrichment activities that promote healing and stability.
How long does a child typically stay?
Length of stay varies based on each child’s needs. On average, youth remain at Youth Haven for approximately 7–9 months, though some may stay longer depending on their situation and path to a permanent placement.
How many children reside at Youth Haven at any one time?
Youth Haven serves approximately 150 unduplicated children and teens each year and provides more than 24,000 nights of care annually. Our campus has the capacity to serve up to 74 youth at any given time.
Who refers children to Youth Haven?
Youth are referred to Youth Haven through child protective services, the courts, schools, and law enforcement, often during times of crisis when immediate safety and support are needed.
Where do the children go when they leave?
When youth leave Youth Haven, they transition to a safe and stable environment, which may include reunification with family, placement with a relative or foster family, or independent living for older teens. Our goal is to ensure each child leaves with a strong foundation for long-term success.
What are Youth Haven's financials?
Youth Haven is committed to transparency and accountability. You can view our financial statements and annual reports on our Financials page located HERE.
How does Youth Haven obtain funding?
Youth Haven is a community-supported organization funded through a combination of individual donations, foundation grants, events, and government support. Community generosity plays a critical role in sustaining our programs and services.
How can I support Youth Haven?
There are many ways to support Youth Haven, including making a gift, volunteering, attending an event, or becoming a corporate partner. Every contribution helps provide critical care and resources for the children and teens we serve.