TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL)--In December, we took a look at youth homelessness in Tallahassee, spending a night in the streets for the first ever "sleep out."
Residents and some local officials slept in cardboard boxes and sleeping bags to benefit Capital City Youth Services.
We also introduced you to Justin Randolph, who found himself without a home just a week before.
"Staying under a pavilion with nothing like, seriously nothing, it makes you value the true meaning of life," said Randolph.
In an Insiders update, Capital City Youth Services raised more than $33,000 from the sleep-out.
The organization has scheduled the next one for November 3.
The money supports the organization's street outreach program, which found Justin at Lake Ella.
"I can't be confident that I won't be homeless ever again in my lifetime, because stuff always happens and you have to learn that it is a journey throughout life," said Randolph.
The Living Harvest, an organization that helps former inmates get a new beginning is now closer to opening its second thrift store location.
We took a look at the program, that uses a 12-step program, earlier this month at its flagship spot. The non-violent offenders get in touch with their faith which the founders say often leads to second chances in life.
Co-founder Dale White says they always look for volunteers.
"Whether it's an associate in our retail store, whether it's sorting in our retail centers or mentoring those folks who need help, there's ways to serve alongside those who we bring in who are trying to do community service hours in a capacity to help them get back on their feet," said White.
In an Insiders update, a second thrift store that's 5,500 square feet at 1219 Tharpe Street is expected to open next month.
Volunteers are already unloading goods from a truck onto the bottom floor of the building.
White thinks the thrift store will be a great addition to the Frenchtown and college areas.
The proceeds will go towards The Living Harvest residential and substance abuse programs.
If you have a story idea for "The Insiders" email us at abc27news@wtxl.tv.
