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Choices Youth Shelter to combine drop-in program, transitional house

December 7, 2018   ·   0 Comments

In an effort to provide a safe environment while still motivating youth, Choices YouthShelter will combine its transitional house on Mill Street and its day drop in program in 2019.

The drop-in program was originally a pilot project that began earlier in the year to create a schedule whereby the organization opens its doors to youth during the day seven days a week.

“We had six months to prove it, and then we’ve got it extended now for another six months,” says Edward Davey, the centre’s outreach worker. “We’re so secluded up here in Dufferin that we are the only support group for homeless youth here in the county.”

He adds that once the renovations are complete with their transitional house, they will combine it with the drop-in program with new rules and mandates. “We figured it out along the way.”

“It’s very necessary,” says April Nash, the centre’s operations director, adding they received more calls from police and community agencies when they pulled back from the program in order to renovate the transitional housing. “We do have a lot of good kids here. They don’t want to be in this situation, they didn’t choose to be in this situation.”

Mr. Davey reiterates the programs’ need in the community, as many youth pushed for it to come back. “That just helps prove the concept.”

He explained the drop in offers a variety of programs from volunteers, including yoga, boxing, and cooking. “We just want to make everyday is worthy.”

He described combining the housing and program as making it a bit more motivating and mandatory for youth to attend, giving them structure, a schedule, and a consistent group showing up to the programs. “It’s setting that motivation to do something, to get some sort of process going, get some sort of networking, mapping going in their lives.”

Mr. Davey says the program is job-like, but interesting, helping the youth break through those barriers and challenges. “We expect you’re waking up with a purpose.”

“It will be nice to start it up again,” commented Ms. Nash. “It will be nice to have some fresh ideas.”

Those interested in volunteering with the drop in program, or for ideas are encouraged to contact Mr. Davey at 519-942-5970 ext. 5.

The centre is hosting their annual general meeting on Monday, Dec. 10. An open house will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 7:00 p.m.

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