How We Started

HomePlate was started when a group of youth and adults noticed that there was not a place in Washington County for young people to gather and learn about resources.  Those youth and adults worked together to make HomePlate -- a place where youth and community members come together to build relationships, find connections, and meet basic needs such as food and safety.

Are there homeless youth in Washington County?

Yes! From July 2005 to June 2006 HomePlate served 390 meals to 130 unduplicated youth. In 2012, HomePlate provided resources, meals and support to nearly 1,000 youth in Washington County through outreach and drop-in services. Many youth do not have a constant place to stay and "couch surf" going from one friend's apartment to another in search of stability. Washington County's homeless live under bridges, in the woods, in abandoned buildings, and, in other words, are largely invisible to us.

What youth come to HomePlate?

Since opening in April 2005 we've had anywhere from 1-40 youth come. A variety of youth with situations from being homeless to just wanting to help out and volunteer come to HomePlate.

Can only homeless youth come to HomePlate?

No, although our target population is youth in homeless situations, any youth in search of support or community is welcome.