This story was first published on Jan. 25 at KTVB.COMBOISE — The Western Idaho Youth Support Center opens its doors on Monday. It is the fourth crisis center for children and teenagers in the Gem State and the second in the Treasure Valley.
“Unfortunately, youth are experiencing quite a bit of challenges,” said Cas Adams, Southwest District Health program manager. “And we want to make sure that there’s a resource available for them when they’re experiencing a crisis.”
Adams said services are entirely free. The center can serve up to six youth ages 10-17, who can stay for almost 24 hours. Those teenagers and children might struggle with thoughts of self-harm, severe bullying, the loss of a loved one, issues with substance abuse, etc.
Southwest District Health funded the center with help from the state. Pathways of Idaho will staff the center and run all the programming.
The goal of the center is to help de-escalate a crisis. When children and teenagers first get to the center, they will go through a security screening and take medical and behavioral health assessments.