High school often proves to be an extremely challenging ride. Some circumstances can be unbearable, unimaginable and at times even life-threatening. The question is: where to go when things get to be too much to handle?
In circumstances where the problem is emotional, such as feeling alone, feeling insecure or feeling unsafe, each high school class has its own counselor, who is accessible to all students. Counselors provide a safe and confidential ear along with advice as to what can be done about the situation.
The Community Center for Youth (CCY) in Walla Walla has been a excellent haven for kids of all ages since November 1999. The CCY has three different programs to meet the widespread needs of teens. Individuals can contact the Community Center by calling 509-526-2571.
One of these programs is the Teen Center, where teens participate in various sports and recreation.
Next, the CCY Bike Center teaches teens to repair bikes using donated bicycles from residents of Walla Walla.
Lastly, Girls Chat is dedicated to raising the self-esteem level of young women and helping teen girls set realistic goals and learn how to achieve them. The Girls Chat group starts a network among peers providing a positive and supportive environment. Also, the girls go to Hairtech Beauty Academy and receive a free haircut, hair style, manicure and pedicure.
For situations where chemical dependence is an issue, Trilogy Recovery Community, located on 515 W. Poplar St. is a group dedicate to supporting and helping families along the road to recovery from substance abuse.
Family support groups meet on Mondays at 5 p.m., and Youth recovery support groups meet Monday through Friday from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Youth recovery support groups meetings are based on the 12-step system to help kids get back on the right track to success. Individual meetings require an appointment by phone call to 509-876-4525.
The Department of Human Services for the county, located on 1520 Kelly Place, focuses on both youth and adults, in many areas of need like mental health, chemical dependency and housing programs.
The DHS focuses on the vulnerable citizens of Walla Walla and reachable by phone, email or by simply walking in for information. The phone number to reach the DHS is 509-524-2920 or email croberts@co.walla-walla.wa.us.
Serenity Point, located next to Harvest Food’s Grocery Store, provides assistance with substance abuse and chemical reliance as well. Meetings can be scheduled by calling 509-529-6036.
If finding food becomes an issue, the Christian Aid Center can provide food and clothing. Located on 202 W. Birch Street, the Aid Center has food kitchens at various churches. To find out which church the kitchen will be held, view the calendar on the Christian Aid Center’s website.
If the situation at home is severe and to the extent where individuals are not provided with the necessary materials for living, such as food, clothes, water and heating, then CPS (Child Protective Services) needs to be involved. Keep in mind, this is for extreme circumstances. When CPS gets involved, there are processes that potentially involve law enforcement.
CPS investigates allegations of physical abuse, sexual abuse, negligent treatment and/or maltreatment, medical neglect, exploitation and child fatalities.
Even when situations seem to be helpless, Walla Walla holds many different outlets and places for youth to go when situations get too heavy to bear. A child is never alone in the world.
