Although in operation since 2004, the Homeless Youth Street Outreach Project is now a component of The Beacon. This program provides case management and licensed mental health counseling services to homeless youth living in the Houston area. This program is unique in that it provides on-the-spot case management and licensed mental health counseling services so that homeless youth receive treatment without delay.

This program provides one of the only no-cost sources of mental health services for young homeless clients who have no medical insurance coverage or who cannot afford the associated co-pays of other clinics. The program uses the following key components of care: (1) case management; (2) psychiatry; and (3) licensed behavioral health assessments and counseling. HYSOP is unique in that it brings its no-cost mental health services directly to the young population targeted, eliminating transportation or scheduling barriers. These services are delivered both by a licensed clinical social worker and by a contracted psychiatrist who provides services weekly in a non-traditional setting, which is more conducive to treatment of this unique population. Mental health counseling services provide a platform for these fragile youth to reconcile their past issues of abuse, violence, addiction, and neglect as well as current problems and challenges.

Through case management, HYSOP addresses the financial, housing, and social needs of homeless youth who are resistant to structured environments. Case management services include information and referrals for housing; screening for SSI benefits, Gold Cards, and food stamps; coordination of medical and mental health care; pastoral support and care; life skills training; access to the Houston Community Voice Mail Program so they can stay in contact with family, friends, and potential employers; and recreational activities in an effort to provide youth with access to positive role models.

It is estimated that the Homeless Youth Street Outreach Project will serve 300 unduplicated youth in 2008.