Predictors of Drop-in Center Attendance Among Substance-Abusing Homeless Adolescents (Research Note) (Report‪)‬

Homeless youths comprise a vulnerable and disenfranchised group. They experience social exclusion and inadequate access to health and social services and are at risk of sexual assault and other trauma (Gaetz, 2004). Because of the vulnerability of homeless youths, engaging them into reintegration services is a priority. Although surveys have provided important information regarding demographic characteristics and problem behaviors among homeless youths (for example, Rachlis, Wood, Zhang, Montaner, & Kerr, 2009), no study that we are aware of has delineated predictors of drop-in center use among these youths. Such information can inform service providers about what youths are likely to be receptive to drop-in center assistance and what youths might need modified services to increase service engagement. Even though evaluations of the impact of drop-in centers are sparse, one study showed that youths who accessed substance abuse, mental health, and case management services through a drop-in center had significant improvements in mental health and housing stability, as well as reduced substance abuse (Slesnick, Kang, Bonomi, & Prestopnik, 2008). Similarly, adult studies have shown that those with access to a social services worker or those who use community services are more likely to exit homelessness (Zlotnick, Tam, & Robertson, 2003). In sum, drop-in centers might ease the challenge of meeting engagement and, ultimately, reintegration goals. However, more research is needed on factors that inhibit or facilitate the use of drop-in centers among homeless youths.