You’ve arrived at a safe online resource for youth experiencing crisis or homelessness looking for where to go next.
You may have arrived on this page after searching online or maybe a friend told you. If you’re here and need help, we want to get you answers to your questions as quickly as possible and in words that are easy to understand. Make sure you scroll down for common questions asked by youth.
Find Help
1. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a health emergency, please call 911.
2. Call The Bridge at 612-377-8800 or via text: 612-400-7233
3. For more resources, visit the Youth Services Network.
Youth Response Center
Available 24/7/365 and provides immediate resources and support. For more information, call (612) 377-8800
LGBTQ+ Support Group
LGBTQ+ and looking for a support group? So What if I Am? is a weekly support group for gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, transgender and questioning teens in Mpls. Meets Tues. at The Bridge for Youth. Learn more about weekly support groups.
The Bridge for Youth is a safe and accepting place for all youth, and everyone is welcome.
How do I know if you have a room for me to stay at The Bridge?
You have three simple options to find out:
- CALL our Crisis Line: (612) 377-8800 to ask about availability
- TEXT/CHAT with us at (612) 400-7233
- DOWNLOAD the YSNMN app or visit the YSNMN website for real-time updates on bed availability
Once you reach out to us, together we’ll explore what comes next and provide support along the way.
How can I get to The Bridge?
If you can find a ride, we are located at 1111 W. 22nd Street in Minneapolis, one block off of Hennepin & Franklin Ave; on bus routes 2, 6, 12, & 17.
Zeke’s Story
Listen as Zeke gives tremendous insight into their experience with The Bridge, finding a safe space in the community created at The Bridge, and serving on our Youth Advisory Committee.
Commonly Asked Questions
These are some of our commonly asked questions that might help put you ease with reaching out to us. Every situation is different, and that’s why it’s important to call or text us.
Absolutely! Youth from anywhere can call The Bridge for support and help connecting to resources. The Bridge is welcoming to all! We can also work to find resources nearest to your location too.
Yes! We accept and celebrate all identities. The Bridge for Youth believes in inclusivity and creating a supportive environment for all youth. You will find that many of our Youth and Family Advocates identify as BIPOC and are an active part of our programming design, implementation, and outreach.
Yes! At The Bridge for Youth we are dedicated to being inclusive and empowering youth to live their truth. No matter your sexual orientation or gender, you are able to access assistance and shelter. You will find that many of our Youth and Family Advocates and Interns identify as LGBTQ+ and are an active part of our programming design, implementation, and outreach.
No problem! The Bridge is a safe place for all youth.
When you arrive, together we’ll explore what’s next – whether that’s shelter, support through Outreach programs, or other programs in the community.
Many of our staff members and interns are from the BIPOC and LGBTQ community. We also have many Advocates who have experienced homelessness and family crisis first hand. While we may not have experienced your situation, we can assure you that we will do everything we can to support you through this. We are Trauma Informed and understand the lasting effects of trauma and will be here to listen.
While at The Bridge, confidentiality is key. At the right time, legal guardians will be notified, and as needed options explored to ensure your safety.
That’s ok. We have a wide range of personal care items, clothing, and other basic items you may need.
The Bridge provides safety and support for all youth. Resilience House (the emergency shelter) is for youth ages 10-17, and Gloria’s Place (for pregnant or parenting youth) is for youth ages 15-17 with children under 3 years old. Marlene’s Place is for pregnant or parenting youth ages 16-20 with children under 3 years old and Rita’s House is for youth ages 18-21. If you’re outside these age ranges, staff at The Bridge will help connect you to other programs that can help.
Yes. The Bridge has two programs for parenting youth and their children: Gloria’s Place is an emergency shelter for youth ages 15-17 and their children ages 0-3 and Marlene’s Place is a transitional living program pregnant or parenting youth ages 16-20 with children under 3 years old.
You are the primary caregiver for your child and while at The Bridge you will not be separated from your child. Youth in Gloria’s Place or Marlene’s Place are provided a room with a bed and a crib for both you and your child.
Yes! While at The Bridge, youth are encouraged to continue and explore options for school. Staff at The Bridge can also help with transportation and provide access to technology as needed.
Yes! The Bridge encourages and empowers youth to grow in as many ways as possible.
Yes! Youth are encouraged to stay connected to their support systems, including mental health counselors. The Bridge also has a therapist on-site that you can meet with as well.
There’s no rush. Some youth stay for just a night, and others for a couple weeks. Youth can stay up to 90 days in shelter programs and up to 18 months in the transitional living programs.
You can begin talking to our Outreach Workers who can continue working with you once you turn 18. We can help navigate the world of becoming a young adult and living independently. Our Outreach Workers are a great resource for housing and work programs and will help ensure you have a place to go. You can also check out YSNMN.org for shelter availability and other helpful resources.
All youth are welcome on the bus and can walk over if you see it parked at any location around the Twin Cities metro area. To find out if it is at a location near you, check our online schedule or the YSN mobile app.
