“There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.” ― John Holmes
For the past few years, the Runaway Homeless Youth Program Facility in South Salt Lake, UT has been in process of renovation to provide a better space to serve runaways and youth from ages 8 to 17experiencing homelessness. Now, it’s finally open. The facility boasts a welcoming interior, built with high wooden ceilings, gorgeous murals, and a community area filled with activities for children of all ages.
To celebrate this occasion, Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson attended the grand opening. According to Wilson, this renovation was needed now more than ever.
“We’re seeing more families with children seeking shelter right now and at an alarming rate,” Wilson said. “We’re trying to unpack that and figure out why that’s happening. But there is a critical need for giving the support to children that is necessary to get them on the right path.”
Currently, two thousand and thirty children ages six years and younger received homeless services in Utah in 2019. But so far, the trauma-informed care approach has helped 114 children in 2022.
Cara Stephens, Associate Director of Youth Services, wants teens to know that a safe space is always ready for them.
“I just really hope that the youth coming here feel like they’re coming to a safe place where they can be and express themselves how they want to and that when they leave, they have a safe and stable place to go,” Stephens said.
To learn more about the incredible work the facility is doing, click here to keep reading.
We, at Sheltering Grace, are passionate about helping homeless mothers and babies end the devastating cycle of homelessness. Please contact us at 678-337-7858 to learn how you can help. Your one act of kindness can make all the difference to mothers and babies in need.
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Sheltering Grace Ministry, Ltd. is a 501(c)3 Ltd. non-profit ministry. We resolve the initial crisis of homelessness by providing mothers with a safe place to live during pregnancy. We also equip them with the tools they need to improve decision-making, enhance employment options, and increase family income to act responsibly as the head of their household. All of our services develop their self-reliance to progress to permanent independent living. Please join us in renewing and rebuilding the lives of these brave women – #Be1of5000.
