By Jill Nagy
Wait House, an emergency and crisis center for families and youth, is celebrating 20 years in the Glens Falls community with a ribbon cutting for a new Family Opportunities Center and a party.
The agency opened the new center, at 333 Glen Street, near Monument Square, about two months ago.
“We are still trying to settle in,” said Wait House Executive Director Jason McLaughlin.
It will serve families in crisis with case management services, mental health treatment, nutrition classes, a playroom for children, and similar services. Walk-ins are welcome, McLaughlin said, but an appointment is better, either through the agency’s website, www.HYCWaitHouse.org, or by telephone at 518 246-5579.
Funding for the new center was provided by grants from the New York State Department of Education and Office of Family and Children’s Services. The agency itself receives some funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and from the City of Glens Falls.
Wait House continues to provide services and shelter for homeless and runaway youth at its original house at 12 Wait Street.
The non-profit organization has a staff of 34, 11 of whom will be at the new center. It focuses on Washington and Warren Counties but also sees clients from Hamilton and Saratoga Counties. Services are provided to families and youth up to the age of 21. Among recent accomplishments, McLaughlin noted, Wait House placed 287 formerly homeless families in their own homes last year. It also provides food and toiletries and has a street outreach program. Work with area schools is also central to the agency’s mission.
McLaughlin graduated with a degree in behavioral health and is also a certified alcohol and substance abuse counselor. He has been with Wait House for four years.
The party—pizza, beer, and wings—is scheduled for April 6. There is a modest admission fee, a bargain compared to a similar restaurant outing, with the proceeds going to Wait House. Details are on the Wait House website.