Collier County's Youth Haven to build new therapeutic center for kids

COLLIER COUNTY - Youth Haven is breaking ground on a new therapeutic center for children in need.

The 22,000-square-foot facility will provide a safe haven for kids who have faced abuse, neglect or homelessness.

Linda Goldfield, CEO of Youth Haven, said, "We are the only shelter in our community for children who've been removed from their homes by the Department of Children and Family Services for abuse, neglect and homelessness."

The new building draws inspiration from the Telford Center, which has been a cornerstone of the campus for over 50 years. Goldfield explained that while the Telford Center has served well, it is beyond renovation.

"This campus has expanded its trauma-informed therapies, ensuring children have all of the therapies they need to heal," said Goldfield.

Jennifer Porter, president of Youth Haven's board of directors, shared that the new center will feature therapy rooms, a family reunification room and a beautiful library.

Porter said, "This will be a place where they can gather for healthy meals together, which they can't do now in the current building."

Goldfield emphasized the importance of the new environment, saying, "Our children deserve the best environment to heal and when your surroundings are elevated, you believe you deserve everything that every other child in this community deserves."

The groundbreaking is set for 10:00 a.m. Friday, with completion expected in about 18 months.