Frequently Asked Questions: What?We provide emergency shelter and necessary support services to runaway and homeless youth as well as youth who have been removed from their homes - usually do to abuse or neglect. We serve youth ages 10-21 and are the only emergency shelter and transitional living program in Baton Rouge. We are one of only three emergency shelters for youth in Louisiana.Where?We are located at 260 S. Acadian Thruway Baton Rouge, LA 70808.Why?Every day, more than 40 children are reported as abused or neglected within the state of Louisiana; officials’ caution that a large number of cases go unreported for various reasons.In 2008, Louisiana was identified as having one of the highest rates of childhood homelessness, ranking 46th of the 50 states and 49th for children at risk of homelessness. Additionally, the Better Homes Fund continues to cite Louisiana children as being the most at risk for homelessness. According to the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System, poverty is the single best predictor of child abuse and neglect. Furthermore, children who live in families with an annual income of less than $15,000 are 22 times more likely to be abused or neglected than children living in families with an annual income of $30,000 or more. Unfortunately, 39% of Louisiana children live at or below the poverty or extreme poverty level and over 13% of children are living in extreme poverty compared to the national average of 7%. More than 26% of children are living in poverty, which makes Louisiana the state with the second highest rate of childhood poverty in the nation and the highest rank within the South, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Youth Oasis is currently the only housing provider available to these young people within Baton Rouge or its surrounding areas. When?Youth Oasis is open 24 hours a day 365 days a year.
How?Youth Oasis is supported by the Federal, State, and Local governments as well as The Wilson Foundation, The Junior League of Baton Rouge, and many private donors and volunteers. We are continually looking to diversify our funding in order to improve our services to the youth we serve. Donations help us to provide for outings, clothing, food, and entertainment for the youth, and building maintenance and upkeep for the facilities. |
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