What does it mean for a youth to call The Coffee Oasis home?

One youth recently shared about their experience at The Coffee Oasis Tacoma Youth Shelter in an essay they wrote: Survival Guide.

“Life as a homeless teenager, let me tell you, it can be a tornado ripping through the dreams you held as a child. Maybe it’s your story too, and if it is, I want the world to know that there’s a place out there, our Oasis, that brings those dreams back.

But what is the Oasis, really? It’s not just another shelter; it’s a second chance at life. It’s where the basics are covered, sure – a roof over your head, food in your belly. But it’s so much more than that. It’s a place where individuals who’ve stared down the toughest of circumstances find the courage to dream again. It’s a sanctuary where the human spirit revives, where hope returns from its long hibernation. You see, the Oasis is where those dreams you thought were too fragile to survive the storm come back to life. It’s a place where the staff and fellow residents become your family, in the truest sense of the word. It’s more than just camaraderie; it’s the lifeline you hold onto when the world gets tough. This community isn’t just a location; it’s a support system that knows no bounds. As you step into the Oasis, it’s not merely a building you’re entering; it’s a realm of rediscovery. It’s where you find your worth, your resilience, and the beauty of shared humanity. This isn’t just about surviving; it’s about thriving.

You can be part of this family for a few days or a hundred and fifty days; the duration doesn’t define your place here. What truly matters is the impact you have on this community and the impact it has on you. It’s not just about finding shelter; it’s about discovering the profound sense of belonging that becomes an integral part of your journey.

We’ve come to understand that communities are not just confined to specific places or defined by walls and roofs. They’re the lifeblood of human existence, giving meaning and purpose to our everyday lives. They’re the bonds we form, the connections we cherish, and the shared experiences that shape us. In a world filled with individuals seeking their place and purpose, these communities offer a sense of belonging that’s nothing short of transformative. Each community, like ours, is a testament to human resilience, kindness, and the unyielding spirit of unity. Our Oasis, as we lovingly call it, isn’t just about providing shelter; it’s about creating a space where acceptance, support, and growth are the norm.”

This is the heartbeat of The Coffee Oasis–to restore community.

To provide a place for youth to call home and rediscover buried dreams. To help youth move from a place of fighting to survive to learning to thrive. 

More than 37,000 students in Washington state are homeless, according to the most recent report to the legislature from the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. And that does not include youth who have dropped out of school–which is more common among youth experiencing homelessness.

Despite the growing number of youth experiencing homelessness in Washington State, there are surprisingly few housing options focused on the unique needs of youth. The Coffee Oasis operates the only underage youth shelters in Bremerton and Tacoma–serving youth from all of Kitsap, Pierce, and neighboring counties. The Coffee Oasis Youth Shelters offer youth a safe and encouraging place to live while they work towards gaining education, employment, and life skills for successful independent futures.