Targeted Population
Approximately 300 children live in the skid row area of downtown Los Angeles. Living in a skid row welfare hotel or homeless shelter, families struggle daily to provide for the basics of food, clothing, and shelter. In the midst of this needy and broken population, children are looking for stable mentoring relationships that give them the strength to survive.
History of S.A.Y. Yes!
In October 1994, the S.A.Y. Yes! Center for Youth Development was started as a program of Central City Community Outreach and now partners with St. Vincent's Cardinal Manning Center and the Center for Student Missions to powerfully and effectively change the lives of children living in the skid row area.
Purpose Statement
To provide a holistic and nurturing haven for children and youth through consistent mentoring which will develop the tools necessary to be leaders of integrity in their community with the growing cooperation of parents.
Description of Program
The S.A.Y. Yes! Center accomplishes it's purpose through educational tutoring, nutritional meals, recreation and character development. The Center operates Monday through Thursdays, 3:00 - 7:00p.m. and holistically addresses four areas of development for children and youth: Educational, Physical, Spiritual / Emotional, and Social.
