New Hope For OC's Troubled Teen Boys At Hope Harbor Rip Tide

ORANGE COUNTY, CA — Hope Harbor Rip Tide, an extension of Orange County Rescue Mission, has opened, the nonprofit announced. The renovated property and new program is a dedicated haven for at-risk teen boys experiencing homelessness, unsafe living environments, criminalization, or other life-altering experiences.

Designed for teen boys between the ages of 12 to 17 who have experienced challenging situations, the program is open. It is accepting participants, according to Jim Palmer, President of Orange County Rescue Mission.

As of this report, Hope Harbor Ripe Tide still has five out of its six beds available for at-risk teen boys, Palmer says.

Inside the Rip Tide home, House Parents and supervisors offer full-time supervision of the teens, offer individual and family counseling, mental health care treatment and referrals, academic support, drug and alcohol prevention education, and life enrichment experiences focused on college readiness independent living skills.

“These teens have experienced difficult situations that can include substance abuse, mental health issues, abuse, bullying, gang exposure, and even suicidal ideation,” says Palmer. “It is our mission to provide a safe, structured and loving home where these young men can find solace and focus on healing and restoration.”

Rip Tide is an extension of the Hope Harbor program and is related to the Rescue Mission’s girls home, Hope Harbor Sea Glass, Palmer adds.

At the grand opening event in early June, Orange County Rescue Mission recognized Kemp Bros Construction Inc., a full-service commercial general contractor, the McMillen Family Foundation, who provided the rest of the funds needed to purchase the home, and several other companies who donated financially and in labor hours to the remodel of the Hope Harbor Rip Tide home.

At the event, each donor was gifted an engraved sword reading, ‘Hope Harbor Rip Tide Hero for Teens 2021.'

“We are constantly blown away by the love and support of our donors and the local community,” says Palmer. “Without them, our mission of keeping at-risk teens safe and off the streets would not be possible. We are truly blessed.”

To refer someone to Hope Harbor Rip Tide or request more information, please call 714-832-0207 or email info@hopeharbor.org.

Orange County Rescue Mission's goal is to minister the love of Jesus Christ to the Least, the Last, and the Lost of our community through the provision of assistance in the areas of guidance, counseling, education, job training, shelter, food, clothing, health care, and independent living communities.

The Rescue Mission was formed as a faith-based organization in 1963. Since that time, the Rescue Mission has shared hope through Jesus Christ to those without hope in Orange County. Our programs are designed to give comprehensive services that move homeless men, women, veterans, and children to self-sufficiency. Its programs and dedication to going above and beyond have earned the organization numerous recognitions, including Charity Navigator’s highest rating of 4 stars.

To make a donation or inquire about volunteer opportunities with Orange County Rescue Mission, please contact (714) 247-4300 or visit www.rescuemission.org.