Floyd County youth center asking for funding to help with relocation

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (WDRB) -- A youth center in Floyd County is asking for help now that it has to relocate.

Last month, Floyd County Commissioners announced they wanted to sell the Pineview Government Center on Corydon Pike in New Albany.

That announcement came just a few weeks after Open Door Youth Services cut the ribbon on its new shelter program, The Sanctuary, there. The new program provides temporary housing and support for youth between the ages of 10 and 17 who are experiencing homelessness or crisis situations.

Open Door does just what its title says, opens doors for vulnerable kids in Floyd County by giving them things like food, shelter and support from adults.

The nonprofit, which dates back to 1982, moved to the Pineview Government Center building in 2012.

Open Door Executive Director Leah Pessarossi said they help around 180 kids a year on average through their residential program and as many as 4,000 children across all programs.

"It's really important to me that we try to do things that are going to be helpful and create healthy adults who have OK lives and especially these kids who have seen some of the most trauma you can imagine," Pessarossi said.

When county commissioners announced they wanted to sell the building, the group was shocked. The day after that announcement, commissioners voted to approve a plan to sell the government center building and terminate Open Door's lease during what was an emotionally-charged meeting.

Now, Pessarossi said she's working with commissioners on the next steps.

"We have come up with a plan that we hope (we) can make happen," she said. "I don't have details yet, but if it does happen, it's going to be very exciting for Floyd County."

Pessarossi also said she's working to lengthen the initial move-out deadline of February 2026, so they have more time. During the commissioner's May 20 meeting when they voted in favor of selling the building, they said they were open to adding more time to that deadline.

If you want to donate to Open Door or learn more about the nonprofit, click here for their website.

To learn more about The Sanctuary program, click here.

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