Opening of New Day Center in Roanoke delayed

Salvation Army's new program addresses teen homelessness

ROANOKE, Va.- – A new project to help address teen homelessness in the Star City hit some snags preventing it from opening three months ago.

The New Day Center run by the Salvation Army of Roanoke was supposed to open October 1.

But delays with the construction process stopped that from happening.

The location will serve as a street outreach, 24-hour hotline and drop-in center for those 18 to 24 who are aging out of foster care and those at risk of homelessness. 

"The teens making contact with the homeless assistance team, they know where they're staying and they know what their needs are and they are identified. So we have a rough estimate of how many young people specifically fall into this category who are not sheltered," said Captain Monica Seiler of the Salvation Army. 

So far, they've identified about 50 teens they can help. 

There will be an educational room, dance studio, game room and gym.
     
The New Day center is expected to open in 60 days.