Facts for Media

Daybreak changes lives and creates futures for homeless and vulnerable youth, ages 10-24. Founded in 1975 as an emergency shelter, Daybreak now serves close to 800 youth every year in the following ways: 

  • Daybreak’s emergency shelter is open 24/7 and provides shelter, food, clothing, counseling, safety, and stability to youth ages 10 to 21. Shelter staff also answer our 24/7 crisis hotline.

  • Daybreak’s housing program is the region’s only program designed to move homeless youth ages 18 to 24 out of homelessness, poverty, under-education, and crisis and into housing, financial independence, educational achievement, and self-sufficiency.

  • Daybreak’s drop-in center is a resource for youth who are couch-hopping, in danger of losing housing, staying in an adult shelter, or living on the street. Daybreak provides these youth with daily necessities while helping them find a safe place to live.

  • Daybreak’s employment program helps Daybreak youth develop the skills necessary to get and keep jobs. Lindy’s is Daybreak’s job-readiness program that provides Daybreak youth with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in a supportive environment. In addition, youth receive job assessment and job placement services.

  • Daybreak’s licensed therapists provide Daybreak youth with individual, family, and group mental health services.

  • Daybreak’s OZ Works program prepares youth for long-term self-sufficiency in the larger community outside of Daybreak and focuses on creating positive youth connections.

  • David’s Place is Daybreak’s drop-in center for LGBTQ+ youth. David’s Place provides a safe and inclusive environment, LGBTQ+ resources and support, and entry into all other Daybreak services.

Assets for Media

Our development office team is happy to assist you with interviews, campus visits and general inquiries. Please contact Joan Schiml, Chief Development Officer, at 937-395-4600 ext. 114. Due to the nature of our services, Daybreak does not provide photos of or direct access to any Daybreak youth.