Midwest Youth Services

Midwest Youth Services Program Overview Video

Midwest Youth Services (MYS) is a nonprofit organization based in Jacksonville, Illinois, dedicated to providing emergency shelter, support, and life-changing services to homeless, runaway, and at-risk youth across eight central Illinois counties: Morgan, Scott, Schuyler, Brown, Cass, Adams, Pike, and Hancock.

For over 47 years, MYS has been a safe and stabilizing force for young people in crisis. Our services include temporary shelter, crisis intervention, case management, life skills education, and support for family reunification and long-term housing solutions. We work closely with schools, law enforcement, and community partners to ensure every youth we serve has access to the resources they need to thrive.

Our approach is youth-centered and trauma-informed. We believe every young person deserves a chance to feel safe, supported, and hopeful about their future. Whether a youth is facing homelessness, family conflict, abuse, or other critical challenges, our team is here to provide immediate help and lasting support.

We serve over 500 youth each year, responding to the growing needs in our region with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to making a difference. As the demand for services continues to grow, we are actively expanding our shelter space to meet the urgent needs of our communities.

In February 2022, MYS proudly opened the Porch Light Project (PLP) — a dedicated youth emergency shelter for youth in crisis who cannot safely return home due to abuse or neglect. PLP provides a secure, supportive environment where youth can begin to heal, access critical services, and make a plan for a safer future. The shelter is a vital lifeline for some of the most vulnerable members of our community, offering immediate refuge when it is needed most.

In 2024, MYS expanded its reach by opening a satellite office in Adams County, located in Quincy, Illinois. This new location was established in direct response to the growing needs of youth in the area and to ensure our team is embedded within the communities we serve. By having a physical presence in Quincy, we are better equipped to provide timely, localized support and build stronger partnerships with local agencies, schools, and families.

Beginning in July 2025, MYS will launch a major building expansion project to support our continued growth and the increasing demand for services. With nearly half of the necessary funds already secured, this project will add 2,500 square feet to our existing facility. The expansion will include additional program space, new offices, and increased shelter bed capacity — all essential to accommodating the rising number of youth we serve and the broadening scope of resources we provide. This project is a critical step toward ensuring our long-term ability to meet the needs of vulnerable youth across our eight-county service area. Capacity Building Campaign Video

As the demand for services continues to grow, we are committed to expanding our programs, staff, and infrastructure to ensure no young person in need is turned away. At Midwest Youth Services, we are more than a shelter — we are a bridge to safety, stability, and a brighter future.