What is the selection process like, who selects these kids, how are they selected?

The selection process is random yet intentional. Most of the kids at the center knew about each other before coming to Hold my Hand. Initially, the team approach homeless youth at a random location; then, it starts to build rapport with the kids. This process can take up to three months or longer. During this time, the team is assessing the kid's intention and want to be housed, their receptiveness to intervention, and commitment to change. After the team has decided that the kids are determined to be housed and change the way they live, they are taken to Woman and Child Affair Bureau(WMAC), and a free clinic for physical to finish their registration. On some rare occasions, WMAC sends a referral to the center.

What other programs do you have for the kids?

Substance use recovery and sobriety is also provided at the center for the boys. A lot of the kids have picked up polysubstance use during their time on the streets. Hold my Hand approach to recovery is complete sobriety and does not apply substitution therapy. The center depends heavily on mentors and councilors to help the boys maintain their treatment goals. 

What are the interventions used at the center?

Each boy's intervention is tailored to recognize a change in character. A lot of the interventional work begins before the boys enter the center. Each kid is assed and counseled for trauma and related issues, followed by treatment and intervention for substance withdrawal and recovery. Most of the kids ended up on the streets as a result of miscommunication between their parents or guardian. Thus, conflict resolution is the first approach in the center to help the boys manage their interpersonal relationships with those around them. Teaching the kids how to have effective communication skills with those around them allows the boys to develop a healthy relationship. 

How long is the treatment given to the boys?

 At Hold my Hand, the team believes that each kid is unique and operates at a different pace; the recommended therapy duration by WAMC is six months to a year. However, our team believes each child has a different pace in learning and honors that journey with them. HMH operation is based on the interest of the kids and their desire to be reunified with their families. The team does a thorough discharge process before returning kids back to their families. Before reunification, parents and team members meet to help address concerns and issues pertaining to the kid's progress. 

When do they get reunified?

Parents and kids are both given a chance to communicate their expectations before returning home. Safety is a significant concern for the team. The requirement for discharge from the center are as followed; parents must be able to provide for the child's basic needs, the relationship between parents and the child should be healthy, and the child should be provided an environment free from any abuse and forced labor. The child must feel safe in the environment they are going back too, and their right to access education should be protected. The child will be kept at the center until all these requirements are met.