THE DOOR IN SHELBURNE – one of 11 under the umbrella of Highland Youth for Christ (HYC), will win higher visibility and easier access for most kids when it’s moved from the town’s Public Works property to Hyland Park.

But we agree with interim Youth Co-ordinator Kerstin Cowan that the new home shouldn’t be permanent and there should be a better facility than the current 24-foot “truck box.”

HYC executive director Ann McCallum says the container is “great for moving around,” but inadequate for The Door’s needs. More space is needed to introduce more programs and accommodate as many young persons who want to participate.

Only a decade ago, The Door in Orangeville was in a makeshift structure on Fifth Avenue. Now it’s in the former police building along with HYC on Centre Street that was purchased for just $450,000.

As well, The Door in Grand Valley has a permanent downtown home in what used to be the Co-op store, which may also host a gymnasium.

In all three centres, The Door has the support and blessings of local councils to the extent possible.

Orangeville council made it possible for the group to purchase the police station at what was clearly a bargain price. Among other things, the site has a kitchen, a common area, a large meeting room, seating areas with couches, pool tables, an air hockey table, fooze ball, a big screen TV, video games and an outdoor basketball court. And thanks to community support, it lacks a mortgage.

The challenge now facing Shelburne residents is to come up with a similar solution to an obvious need.