Funding Plea Made For Manchester Home That Services At-Risk Youths Amid Closure Fears

MANCHESTER, CT — A Manchester-based home that services at-risk youths is in dire need of funds or it could close by the beginning of the next fiscal year, officials for the TLC Foundation said.

The Diyeso-Lewis House is a transitional and safe home which offers a structured environment to children who are victims of abuse, neglect or family disruption. But a complete loss of funding has put the center itself at risk, TLC officials said. TLC operates the Diyeso-Lewis House.

A Go-Fund-Me account has been set up to take donations that will offset the loss. The goal is $200,000. The TLC Foundation runs the Diyeso-Lewis House.

"Over the past 38 years TLC Foundation, Inc., has provided a loving place to call home to over 200 children, primarily aged 12 to 18," TLC Foundation officials said. "Our children have been able to remain at their local schools, which minimizes disruption in their already challenged lives. We provide supportive, therapeutic programs to ensure that each child develops the skills necessary to succeed in school and then later in life, despite the family situation they were born into. We also work with families towards reunification if, and when possible."

Over the course of those 38 years, the program was funded 100 percent by the town of Manchester and the Manchester Board of Education, TLC Foundation officials said.

"We were recently devastated to learn that the Diyeso-Lewis House has been completely eliminated from both budgets - effective July 1," TLC Foundation officials said. "We've not only had to turn away several children in need as we waited in limbo, but we are now faced with finding safe, appropriate shelter for our current residents."

As of noon Monday, 11 people have donated a total of $1,775 toward the $200,000 goal in increments of $25, $50 and $200.

"Any amount will be appreciated," TLC Foundation officials said.

Licensed by the Connecticut Department of Children and Families, TLC "ensures each child continues their education in Manchester Public Schools while receiving 24-hour supervision and support in a safe and nurturing setting," officials said.

The TLC Foundation is a non-profit organization, registered at both the state and federal levels. Donations are tax-deductible, and all donations will go directly toward operating expenses, including food and shelter, officials said.

To make a donation, click here.