LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- YMCA Safe Place campus in Louisville is nearing its 40th anniversary.

The program began in Louisville in 1983 and serves young people in crisis. It expanded to 20,000 locations across the U.S. and is now a national model.

Congressman Morgan McGarvey stopped by the campus on Tuesday.

"Today on Halloween as we get ready for the holidays, to recognize that it's not a happy day for everyone in our community," McGarvey said. "And to show that there are kids that need that safe place. That need that help. And that it really does work. That when we take kids in and give them a chance, they really want to make the best for themselves." 

McGarvey said it's important to reauthorize the Runaway Youth and Prevention Act. He said that funding is crucial to make sure children are being invested in so they can choose the right path.

The Safe Place Services branch is located at 2400 Crittenden Drive in the St. Joseph neighborhood. It's open 24 hours a day. To learn more about the program, click here.

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