London (Ontario) – Every London youth deserves a safe and affordable place to call home.
Today in London ON, Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU) will celebrate the opening of the YOU Housing First Youth Shelter. Located at 585 Clarke Road, south of Oxford Street, the new shelter provides a low barrier, trauma informed model of care. By linking the shelter to YOU’s extensive housing, education, training and employment programs, youth have the supports they need to overcome homelessness and build bright futures. It is located in a safe area close to essential services, such as public transit, employment opportunities, education and many community partners.
Almost 25% of homeless individuals in London are youth, and the age of youth accessing shelters in London is getting younger, with youth as young as 16 accessing shelter space. The City of London recognized that most shelters are not appropriate for youth, and in 2017 the City of London selected and provided funding of $1.2 million to YOU to build a youth-only Shelter.
At today’s event, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), will share remarks in celebration of this milestone. We extend our thanks to CMHC for their financial commitment of $2.9 million for the construction of the Youth Opportunities Unlimited Housing First Youth Shelter.
Thanks to these commitments and extensive supports of community donations totalling $7.1 Million, this project by Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU) will provide emergency shelter and diversion services to young adults 16 to 24 years of age, who are experiencing homelessness.
When: 10:00-10:45 am, Monday, August 24, 2020
Who: Hosted by Youth Opportunities and all are welcome
Where: RSVP to the virtual event and virtual open house (Click Here) or Click here to access
For over 35 years, YOU has been in the business of building opportunities for youth through education, skills training, employment supports and referrals they need to lead positive lives. From health and dental care to housing, workshops and on-the-job skills training, YOU’s vision is a community where youth are embraced and will thrive.
Quotes
“I am excited to see the YOU Housing First Youth Shelter open and already helping at-risk youth turn their lives around, especially at a time when housing is so central to our well-being. Our Government is proud to have supported the development of this 30-bed shelter with a contribution of close to $3 million through the National Housing Co-Investment Fund, a cornerstone initiative of our $55-billion National Housing Strategy.” – The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and the Minister responsible for CMHC 2
“Londoners have done an excellent job at flattening the curve when it comes to COVID19, and now it’s time to help flatten another curve,” says London Mayor Ed Holder. “Youth homelessness is an issue we need to focus on and thanks to the YOU shelter and it’s dedicated staff, young people of our community who are struggling can access resources they need to move forward. We are proud to be able to be a part of flattening this very important curve.”
“Many young people in our community experience homelessness and suffer tremendously as a result. This is not acceptable! Without a home, these youth face impossible challenges in building their lives and participating in our community. With this investment, YOU will have the resources needed to help many of London’s youth see hope, find homes and achieve their full potential” Steve Cordes, Chief Executive Officer, Youth Opportunities Unlimited.
Quick Facts
- The YOU Housing First Youth Shelter will be located at 585 Clarke Road, south of Oxford Street.
- Youth ages 16-24 who are looking for a safe and secure space.
- 60% of individuals in London were under the age of 30 when they first experienced homelessness
- 80%+ who received Housing First supports remained housed after the first year
- 26% of those accessing shelters are 24 years and younger
- Many of these youth are victims themselves, with 76% experiencing at least two forms of abuse in their lives
- 68% of youth experiencing homelessness come from foster care, group homes or a youth centre
- With its’ new building, YOU aims to achieve energy savings of 34% and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 51% compared to the NECB 2015.
- 6 of the 30 units (20%) have been designed as fully accessible while the entire building has been completed as universal design.
Information on this release
Spokesperson:
Steve Cordes, CEO
steve@you.ca
519-878-1455
Media Contact:
Holly Doty, CMP YOU Campaign Manager
holly@connectdot.ca
519-636-7707
