Community leaders and St. Augustine residents gathered under clear skies on October 22, to witness the grand opening of a crucial facility aimed at transforming the lives of at-risk youth. County Commissioner Ann Taylor stood amongst them, a representative of the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners, as she took part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new St. Augustine Youth Services (SAYS) Community Outpatient Center. According to details released on the official St. Johns County website, the County played a significant role in the establishment of this new center through a $400,000 contribution to fund the purchase of the building.
The outpatient center which is located at 35 Alsop Court, is the latest addition to the expansive work that SAYS has been doing for decades. Initially opening its doors in 1989, the organization initially served 18 youths, a far cry from the hundreds it supports today. Over time, the Hutson Family campus at 201 Simone Way evolved, featuring four residential group homes and offices for community services. Throughout three Florida counties — St. Johns, Flagler, Putnam — SAYS continues its mission, expanding its reach to provide a family-like atmosphere filled with coaching, counseling, and mental health support for those who have faced abuse, neglect or are in need of additional support.
The services and programs offered by SAYS take on an increasingly important role in a society where mental health challenges are on the rise amongst young people. The organization has become known for creating a supportive network that offers more than just treatment — it offers a chance for youth to reclaim the narrative of their lives in a positive and nurturing environment. Beyond its residential services, the new Community Outpatient Center is designed to extend the organization's care to outpatient services, which can be imperative in bridging the gap between in-home support and residential care.
