Toledo, OH – Each year around 4.2 million of America's youth experience some form of homelessness. National Runaway Prevention Month (NRPM) takes place every November and is supported by the Family and Youth Services Bureau. During NRPM, it is customary to turn your exterior lights green. So, if your neighbor has green lights on their house, there is a good chance they did it for NRPM. Earlier this year, Zepf Center's Street Outreach Team was awarded a 3-year grant to continue going into the community to reach the youth and ensure they can access the services they need. "These kids are the future of our community," says Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores, "they can come from all walks of life and all types of backgrounds." 

The Lucas County Commissioners have declared that November is the beginning of National Runaway Prevention Month in Lucas County Ohio and encourage all citizens to appreciate the role that we can all play in advocating for and providing safe alternatives to this vulnerable population of young people. "We must do everything we can to provide these children the resources they need to start their life," says Flores. Safety Net is the Toledo Community's one-stop shop that can provide food, clothing, and resources. Zepf Center's Safety Net is our region's only runaway and homeless youth shelter.

About Zepf Center: Zepf Center is a Toledo-based, non-profit behavioral health and vocational services clinic for youth and adults with severe and persistent mental illness and those struggling with addiction. Its mission is to create hope and recovery through integrated person-centered services. www.zepfcenter.org

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