Northern N.S. groups excited to establish integrated youth services sites
Kathryn Tanner has deep roots in Stellarton, N.S., where she now serves as the executive director of Pictou County Roots for Youth, an organization that provides emergency shelter and supportive housing for young people aged 16 to 24. Growing up across the street from where she now works, Tanner has seen the need for youth support services in the community for over two decades.
The recent announcement by the province of Nova Scotia regarding the establishment of integrated youth services sites has brought hope to Tanner and others working to support at-risk youth. These sites, to be overseen by the IWK Health Centre in partnership with community groups, will offer a range of services including mental health and addictions counseling for young people aged 12 to 25. Additionally, they will provide support in areas such as employment, housing, and income assistance.
Tanner believes that having a site in her area will greatly benefit the youth population and help reduce homelessness. She shared that the demand for services at the Stellarton youth shelter can fluctuate dramatically, with days of no calls followed by days where they have to turn away multiple young individuals seeking help.
The issue of youth homelessness is complex, with factors such as mental health challenges, addiction issues, and family breakdown playing a significant role. Tanner emphasized the importance of affordable housing for young adults and mentioned that their organization is continuously working to expand their supportive housing options.
While specific opening dates for the integrated youth services sites have not yet been announced, communities like New Glasgow are eagerly awaiting the arrival of these much-needed resources. Margie Grant-Walsh, the executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pictou County, expressed excitement about the accessibility of services that will be provided at the new site in New Glasgow. She highlighted the convenience of having multiple support organizations housed under one roof, making it easier for rural youth to access the help they need.
In neighboring Amherst, efforts are also underway to establish a site for integrated youth services, reflecting the growing demand for such resources in northern Nova Scotia. Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, the Independent MLA for Cumberland North, emphasized the importance of addressing financial stress as a key contributor to family breakdown and youth homelessness. She suggested that lowering taxes could help ease the financial burden on families and in turn reduce the strain on support services for youth.
As communities across Nova Scotia work together to provide comprehensive support for at-risk youth, the hope is that these integrated youth services sites will make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people facing various challenges. By addressing mental health, addiction, housing, and employment needs in a coordinated manner, these sites have the potential to create a brighter future for the next generation.
