Elite DNA Behavioral Health, in partnership with CDS Family & Behavioral Health Services, is hosting a donation drive through June 30 to support local youth facing challenges in the Gainesville area.

The donation drive will support the Interface Youth Program, along with providing various items to youth participating in CDS summer programs and ongoing services. Requested items include school supplies, board games, card games, handheld calculators, coloring books and crayons, toothbrushes and toothpaste, duffle bags, McDonald’s gift cards and brushes and combs (without points).

Drop-off locations are at Elite DNA’s Gainesville office at 1131 NW 64^th Terrace, Ste. A, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“At Elite DNA, we recognize the difficulties our local youth face, and we believe that no young person should have to navigate these hardships alone,” said Elizabeth Dosoretz, LCSW, founder and CEO of Elite DNA Behavioral Health, in a press release. “Too often, these young individuals lack access to the resources, support and stability they need to thrive. With the generosity of the community, we can help provide essential items that empower them to work toward a brighter future.”

Elite DNA Behavioral Health, a comprehensive behavioral and mental health service provider, and CDS Family & Behavioral Health Services, Inc., a nonprofit organization that empowers individuals and strengthens families and communities through prevention, counseling and youth programs, are focusing on one of CDS’s cornerstone initiatives, the Interface Youth Program. The program offers a safe, short-term shelter for children ages 10 to 17 who are facing challenges such as family conflict, housing instability or emotional distress. The program is available 24/7 at no cost to families, providing meals, clothing, individual and group counseling and life skills education.

“CDS has a five-decade history of working with our community partners in support of the North Florida children, youth, families and communities we serve,” said Philip N. Kabler, CEO of CDS Family & Behavioral Health Services, Inc., in a press release. “We look forward to developing a new partnership with Elite DNA to continue that work in the future.”

For more information, visit CDSFL.org/Interface-Youth-Program/.