RAWLINS, Wyo. (AP) — A temporary residence for children in crisis is opening in Rawlins.

The Associated Press reported Friday the Carbon County Youth Crisis Center will provide a home for children until a foster family is found or the children can be returned to their parents.

Organizers say it took nine years of work to establish the Carbon County center. They celebrated with an open house Thursday.

Carbon County contracted with the Cathedral Home in Laramie to staff the center.

Former County Commissioner Terry Weickum, who was instrumental in getting the center, says it was urgently needed.

It allows Carbon County children to stay closer to home rather than being transferred to centers in Laramie or Casper.

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