COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KOAA) — The Place held its annual "Off the Street" breakfast Thursday morning under the Colorado Avenue Bridge on Sierra Madre Street, bringing together city and business leaders to support the organization's mission of helping young people fighting to survive.
The organization has grown from eight apartments scattered throughout the city to more than 110 housing units, providing shelter and support for local youth.
Wayne Bland, board chair of The Place, said:
"From eight apartments scattered throughout the city to more than 110 housing units, that's hundreds of young people who have launched themselves into the futures of the street. Thanks to the place, it's not just about housing; it's about building lives and a place to belong."
Chris Johnson, CEO of The Place, said:
"Last night, while most of our city slept, hundreds of young people in our community had no safe place to close their eyes. They woke up this morning exhausted, overlooked, and fighting simply to survive. But they are not fighting alone."
The Place says its goal is to not only provide shelter, but to help every young person build a successful future off the streets. Since May, the organization has provided housing for 110 young people.
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