Residential Treatment

Houses That Become Homes

Auburn Youth Resources operates, the South King County Youth Shelter (SKYS), which is the only licensed emergency shelter for homeless and abandoned youth between the ages of 10 and 17 in all South King County.  AYR also operates Severson House, which is the only licensed transitional living program for boys between the ages of 15 and 19.

SKYS provides emergency care and a short term treatment program for boys and girls. Youth in need of emergency shelter care as a result of abuse and neglect or who are classified as homeless, may remain in the shelter for up to 14 days. Youth in need of more extensive treatment may remain in the interim residential treatment program for up to six months.

On admission, an assessment is made by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), Division of Children and Family Services (DCFS), the child's AYR caseworker and, if appropriate, the child's family as to the best possible placement of the child. Depending on the circumstances, the child may return home or be placed in foster care or in another treatment program. The ultimate goal of this process is to ensure the child's current and future safety and wellbeing.

The Severson House program is designed to help homeless boys make the transition from foster care or residential placement to independent living. Boys may remain in the program for up to two years.

Severson House is a life and job-skill readiness program that is designed to help at-risk youth succeed in today's complex social and work settings. To ensure their resilience, boys are required to complete high school or attain GED certification. Further educational development in the form of vocational training is encouraged. To bolster their job skills, boys are required to work at least part time while in the program. Other requirements, such as community service and work around the house, serve to help develop a sense of compassion and empathy for others. Also, residents must demonstrate their commitment to a drug- and alcohol-free lifestyle.

AYR is committed to providing professional, comprehensive care to all the children in the residential facilities. A dedicated core of youth counselors, case managers, substance abuse counselors, and mental health therapists provide support to each child through individual, family, and group counseling.

For more information contact 1-800-60YOUTH (1-800-609-6884).