New youth services center in Story County could help 500 children a year
Work is underway on a new facility to help young Iowans beat their addictions.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held Tuesday afternoon near Cambridge.
Officials at Youth Social Services said they wanted their Ember Facility to be in and around nature. That's why the location was picked.
They plan to build cabins and outdoor recreation centers in a field in addition to the central hub.
The new $20 million campus will have 70 beds and offers addiction treatment for Iowa youth.
Gov. Kim Reynolds was at the site in the morning. She said it's been one of her main priorities since taking office.
"As someone who has lived with addiction and walked the walk myself, I can't begin to tell you how incredible today is and how important it is," Reynolds said. "And truly the impact you're going to have."
KCCI also spoke to YSS President and CEO Andrew Allen. He said the new addition could help as many as 500 kids every year.
Click below to watch more from Beau Bowman: