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Group of students wearing backpacks
Group of students wearing backpacks
Close-up of kid receiving immunization

Expanding Care for Youth at Risk

A joint initiative between St. Louis Children’s Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine, The SPOT (Supporting Positive Outcomes with Teens) is a medical drop-in center serving ages 13-24 that addresses behavioral health, social support and prevention needs in a youth-positive environment. The program’s ultimate goal is to eliminate common barriers to care access within St. Louis’ most underserved populations.

Students in school listening to a lecture from St. Louis Children’s staff member

Current State

Since opening its Central West End location in 2008, The SPOT expanded in 2015 to create the first school-based health center in St. Louis County at Jennings High School.

Our community and school-based centers have provided comprehensive healthcare resources to more than 20,000 youth throughout the region. Free, confidential services include:

  • Behavioral health screenings
  • Case management and resource referrals
  • Counseling and psychiatry
  • HIV and STI screening and treatment
  • Medical and reproductive healthcare
  • Primary care for youth in foster care

Who we serve

Pie chart showing demographic analysis of patients served at the SPOT – 70% Black, 21% White, 6% Other (Asian, American Indian/Alaska Native), 3% Multiracial

 

 

Top 5 Zip Codes Served

Bar graph displaying the top five zip codes served by the SPOT. Jennings, 63136 – 12% (261), Florissant, 63033 – 4% (92), Central West End, 63108 – 4% (88), University City, 63130 – 4% (87), Downtown West, 63103 – 4% (75)

The path forward

Together, we will fight health disparities in St. Louis by increasing access to compassionate, equity-oriented care. The hiring of additional behavioral health professionals, staff members and case managers, as well as the expansion of necessary medical services, is only possible through your continued support.

The Spot  
Annual Cost $1.8 million
The spot at jennings  
Annual Cost $370,000
Endowment $15 million
TOTAL $17,170,000