The next HOPE Volleyball SummerFest charity we are featuring is Youth Services Bureau. We had so much fun featuring Upstream Ottawa’s programs during Black History Month that we decided to make a series out of it. The Youth Services Bureau offers a wide range of essential resources to youth and families in Ottawa ranging from housing, mental health, and employment support.
They are one of the largest and most comprehensive non-profit agencies focused on serving youth in Ottawa. They work together with young people's existing support network to address complex issues affecting their physical and mental health. Their approach to housing is particularly impressive.
Housing First
Access to safe and affirming housing is the building block that additional supports should be placed on. Youth Services Bureau knows and honours this fact. Without access to secure housing, an individual's mental health, coping skills, and relationships will be strained. Trying to address these areas without ensuring someone's basic needs are met will likely be a band-aid solution. It would be like bailing a boat rapidly filling up with water without patching the leak.
There are an estimated 40,000 homeless youth across Canada. Youth Services Bureau offers services to support young people in their journey from homelessness to stable housing. Young people can access one of the only two dedicated youth shelters in Ottawa or transitional housing and will be supported by staff for up to a year.
With the current sky-high rental prices many youth and families do not live in affordable housing. That’s why Youth Services Bureau also offers long-term housing that is geared towards the residents income. It can be very stressful to live in unaffordable housing. When someone is paying 30% of their income, there is more space for them to enjoy their life outside of survival mode. Affordable housing can be a huge mental health boost.
Building a Home
Youth Services Bureau connects people without family support to a youth worker to develop a community plan. Providing shelter to people in need is important, but a home is more than that. It is also a place of belonging and authenticity. That’s why their long-term housing buildings host activities like drag shows, movie nights, and cultural celebrations.
Keep an eye out on our social media and blog for upcoming features of our other three recipient charities.
