Lark-Inn for Youth

The Lark Inn is part of the City and County of San Francisco Human Services Agency’s homeless shelter program and the only designated shelter for youth ages 18–24. As availability is determined nightly, youth must arrive at the shelter by 9:45 PM (curfew) to obtain a bed. There is also a waitlist for a limited number of beds guaranteed for the maximum length of stay. Youth may be referred through the Haight Street Referral Center, Sutter Street Drop-In Center, Larkin Street outreach materials, and other service providers.

Housing is dormitory-style, and includes the following: secure lockers; a kitchen and dining area serving 3 meals per day; laundry facilities; bathrooms and showers; group services; recreation activities; and a kennel for pets.

All residents who stay in the shelter more than 20 total nights are required to participate in meetings with a case manager and complete a stabilization plan. Following this, they are required to save 60% of their income towards future housing, which is refunded upon leaving. Case-managed residents who are engaged in more than 30 hours/week of productive activity (working, going to school, interning, or volunteering) have the option of participating in the incentives-based Gateway program, which comes with privileges such as semi-private bathrooms, a TV lounge, and no specified “lights out” period.

The Lark Inn links youth with other Larkin Street programs. The facility is closed during the day, and residents must leave the premises except in cases of verifiable work schedule conflicts or illness.

Services Available