The Zepf Center continues to play a vital role in supporting vulnerable youth in Northwest Ohio, thanks in part to a recent $50,000 grant awarded through the Greater Toledo Community Foundation from the Sylvania Franciscan Foundation Fund. The funding will directly benefit Safety Net, the region’s only shelter dedicated to run away and homeless youth.
Safety Net operates around the clock, 365 days a year, providing emergency shelter to youth who have run away, been forced out of their homes or have nowhere else to turn. The program offers more than just a place to sleep; it creates a safe, supportive environment where young people can begin to rebuild their lives.
“Every year, the shelter admits hundreds of local youths,” said Charles Green, Manager of Youth Runaway and Homeless Services. “This program is critical for young people and gives them a place where they can feel secure, access support and begin building a path forward.”
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In addition to overnight shelter services, Safety Net extends its reach through a drop-in center for youth ages 12 to 24. Open every Monday and Wednesday from noon-5pm, the center provides essential resources including hot showers, laundry facilities, hygiene products and warm meals. It also serves as a connection point for community services, helping youth access the tools and support they need to move forward.
Beyond Safety Net, the Zepf Center offers a comprehensive range of mental health and crisis services for youth and families. Its integrated, person-centered approach ensures that each individual receives care tailored to their unique needs, reinforcing the organization’s broader mission of fostering hope, healing and long-term stability.
“The winter months can be especially dangerous for youth without a safe place to stay,” said Courtney Burrow, Senior Director of Crisis Services. “Safety Net ensures that our community’s young people have somewhere to turn, whether they need shelter, urgent behavioral healthcare or a caring team ready to help them take the next step.”
This latest grant comes at a critical time, strengthening Zepf Center’s ability to maintain and expand these essential services. As the need continues to grow, community support remains key. The organization is actively accepting donations to help sustain programs like Safety Net and ensure that no young person in Northwest Ohio is left without care or shelter.
For many youth facing uncertainties, the Zepf Center stands as a lifeline offering not only immediate relief, but a pathway toward stability, recovery and a brighter future.
Learn more on Zepf Center’s website. Visit the main branch at 6605 W Central Ave. 419-841-7701.
