The aim of the project is to take a multi‐faceted, holistic approach to recurring homelessness by removing lifestyle, housing, educational and employment barriers. Youth will be supported in learning to live independently and securing opportunities to make healthier lifestyles more sustainable.
Sheldon Pollett
Executive Director,
Choices for Youth
responses to youth homelessness must address housing, employment and educational needs concurrently requires intensive models of support which focus on a variety of life issues impacting on these areas (addictions, mental health, experiences with violence, etc) communities must create multiple access points for youth to engage broader application of harm reduction philosophy – in the absence of a perfect choice, make the one that causes the least harm
Sample Statistics 67% unstable housing in family of origin 66% are currently reliving this experience Consistent 56% repeat shelter use rate 66% are not engaged in any form of traditional or alternative educational program 72% have limited or no employment experience 75% have experience with the criminal justice system 59% disclose some level of substance abuse issue
intensive supportive housing program for youth with complex mental health needs based on the successful model run by Stella Burry Community Services for adults with complex mental health needs staff team of 6 will work with 5 youth over a one year period similar to the existing Supportive Housing Program but has greater capacity to support youth one on one, in their living space evidence (cost benefit analysis) demonstrates that this approach lowers rates of hospitalization and incarceration, while greatly improving the quality of life for those involved
14 units designed for youth between the ages of 16-24 youth can reside for up to one year program is built on the link between housing, education and employment will focus on those youth who have self-identified as requiring support in learning to live independently and maintaining housing
basic carpentry skills training and employment opportunity for 10 youth 4 weeks of training 40 weeks of on the job training utilizes an intensive model of support for a wide range of barriers and issues youth are fully engaged in the construction of a facility which includes 14 housing units and learning/program space
Sample Statistics 67% unstable housing in family of origin 66% are currently reliving this experience Consistent 56% repeat shelter use rate 66% are not engaged in any form of traditional or alternative educational program 72% have limited or no employment experience 75% have experience with the criminal justice system 59% disclose some level of substance abuse issue