WACO, Texas (KWTX) - Methodist Children's Home is expanding its independent living program with a new 22-unit residential complex for youth transitioning out of foster or group care.

The complex will be built on a lot that formerly housed the Uptown Motel, located along 5th Street next to the organization's Family Outreach Center.

Growing need among youth aging out of careLyle Mason, vice president for advancement at Methodist Children's Home, said approximately 1,200 youth will age out of care in Texas this year."The challenges that youth are facing now, who have aged out of care, are greater than ever," Mason said.