A Greenwich-based nonprofit organization that provides free around-the-clock help to children and teens is seeking additional funding to continue its operations.

Kids in Crisis is a crisis intervention and emergency shelter program for children up to 17 years old and their families.

The group provides a safe place for children to stay when their parents have no other options. Workers at Kids in Crisis can take the children and temporarily give them a colorful bedroom with blankets and stuffed animals, in addition to a toy-filled playroom.

Executive Director Shari Shapiro says the demand for short-term services is on the rise, but financial support from the state is on the decline.

Supporters such as Joe Kaliko, of the Needs Clearing House, are providing donations to help close the gap in funds.

Shapiro says the shelter has also seen a rise in the number of kids in need of care while a parent is in the hospital or dealing with a fire that destroyed their home.

Kids in Crisis has a 24-hour hotline staffed by clinicians and offers community-based services such as anti-bullying programs. It has been serving the community since 1978.