The Washoe County Board of Commissioners approved a $1.5 million contract extension between the county's Human Services Agency and Catholic Charities, for their Crossroads Program Partnership. Simply put, this means more opportunities for those trying to get back on their feet after battling drug addictions or experiencing homelessness.

The Crossroads Program started in Washoe County about eight years ago. Amber Howell, Director for Washoe County Human Services Agency says, "It really provides housing and nutrition first, and then wraps services around and infuses substance abuse services, mental health services, job and employment training."

It's since blossomed from just one campus to three, with almost 200 beds; but the need continues to outpace the room available, Howell says, "We have 165 women on the wait list."

 With the large contract approved by the county this year, the program is guaranteed to be able to fund all wrap around services, instead of having to rely on outside grants.      

With an expansion of 24 beds in the works, officials hope to be able to turn even more lives around.  

To learn more about the program, click here.