Programs that provide access to crisis intervention and support services on a drop-in basis for people who are experiencing acute emotional distress during night and weekend hours when other resources are unavailable. Services may include a needs assessment; brief individual, group and family counseling; referrals; and a range of other secondary services depending on the situation. These programs may target homeless and at-risk youth; students; families experiencing an emergency; people who are in crisis due to health, mental health or drug/alcohol issues; or other groups with urgent concerns. Many work closely with police and emergency health services as well as other organizations that provide crisis response assistance; and serve as an after-hours alternative to hospitalization or treatment in a residential setting.