A local program that helps youth in serious danger find sanctuary may be forced to shut down if it doesn't get more funding by the spring.
The Chatham-Kent Block Parent program has been operating in the municipality for 40 years and is meant to provide any youth who feel they are in an at-risk situation with a safe place close by where they can go to escape.
Outreach Coordinator Deanna Bullard said locally, there are roughly 90 homes registered that have helped youth in various situations including falling through ice, bullying, and even escaping human trafficking.
"We have had reports from parents about young teens having arrived at the door who were kidnapped," Bullard said. "As we are all aware, we on the route with the sex trade, so it is believed that's where that teenager was going to be sent off to... we've had some pretty tragic stories that our members can tell us about."
The CK Block Parents sent out a release Tuesday afternoon saying they might have to shut down the operation in May if they can't get $30,000 by April 15. Bullard said the program was previously funded by the Salvation Army, but that support ended when the organization had to make budget cuts.
Bullard added the Block Parents do a lot more than just provide a sanctuary for youth. She said a major part of the program is going to schools and holding events to teach kids how to stay safe when they are out. It doesn't just apply to youth anymore, either.
"Over the 40 years we've grown to also include senior safety," Bullard said. "That's been our next big push that's on right now -- educating our seniors on how they can be safer out in the community. We give them safe walking tips, not to show their money when they're out and even how to be safer in their home. We are a preventative society."
Bullard added the program is run by volunteers of which there are 175 currently involved locally and the money is needed for rent and daily operations. She said doors to the Chatham-Kent Block Parents will officially close May 30 if the program can't come up with the money.
The coordinator said anyone interested in helping out can contact them through the website or Facebook page.