(Image Credit: Florence Crittenton Services of Topeka)
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A 111-year-old agency in Topeka that provides residential and outpatient care for at-risk girls is fighting back after losing almost one-third of its budget in the last two years. Florence Crittenton lost Medicaid funding as the number of clients it helped declined. And United Way of Greater Topeka stopped funding the organization. The Topeka Capital-Journal reports the agency has responded by adding four new programs it hopes will bring in more revenue, while also improving community service. Crittenton was once known primarily as a sanctuary for pregnant teenagers. It now offers an outpatient therapy clinic, an exercise program, a wellness program and respite services on the weekends for severely emotionally distressed children. CEO JoLana Pinon says the agency knew it needed to diversify and losing the funding provided motivation.