A youth drop-in center opens in Lima to cater to the social service and behavioral health needs of kids in the area. The Specialized Alternatives for Families and Youth, or SAFY, is now operating a daily drop-in center for kids ages 12 to 17. The center offers community referrals, support groups, anger management, and independent living skills.
SAFY's treatment director says kids can come here to get help with homework and difficulties at home, or just to hang out. "What we have found is that youth who've been victimized in some fashion will struggle with anger management skills, they will struggle with school, they will struggle in their personal relationships," said treatment director, Judy Lester, "This is a safe haven where youth can come to be accepted to learn important skills."
They are also starting a once a week program for young adults to learn independent life skills. "Youth eighteen to twenty four can come and learn how to get connected to college, learn how to open a checking account, learn some really basic life skills so that they can be successful in life as well," said Lester. The Center is asking for food donations of all kinds for kids using their services. It's open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
