The teen shelter operated by Second Story (formerly Alternative House) serves as a safe haven at no cost for 13 to 17 year olds who are in crisis, including those who have run away or been kicked out of their homes, are homeless or have been abused. In addition to a place to stay, food and clothing, each teenager receives individual, group and family counseling, along with assistance in continuing their education. Youth may stay for up to three weeks at a time and Second Story staff members help them plan their next steps after that.
Second Story’s Family Resource Centers located in Culmore [3304B Culmore Court in Falls Church, (703) 379-5217 or TTY 711] and Springfield/Franconia [7224 Commerce Street, Apartment T-2, (703) 644-0000 or TTY 711] offer a variety of services including counseling and Teen & Youth and Joint Parent & Child Programs.
A Second Story Counselor is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by calling 1-800-SAY-TEEN or texting “TEENHELP” to 855-11. For more information on Second Story, call (703) 506-9191 or E-Mail info@second-story.org.
