Crosswalk Serving Teens In Trouble

Crosswalk: Not the two white lines you see on the streets to protect people from traffic but almost like it.

Crosswalk is a program for teens having trouble at home or who are homeless.

It was founded 12 years ago as a place for teens to get a meal.

On July 1, it began operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week providing food, clothing, shelter, counseling, recreation and schooling for teens on the streets.

One of the founders came up with the name because crosswalks make people feel safe, and that’s what this program is supposed to do for teens.

Program Director Denise Layman and Public Relations Coordinator Brenda Turner look after Crosswalk. There are about 65 volunteers, including churches that donate food and doctors who donate their time. Yet a third of the donations come from the community.

There is no cost to use Crosswalk’s services. Crosswalk is located in the Volunteers of America building, 525 W. Second.