Youth Addiction Recovery

Youth Support Recovery Homes

The recent homeless count found 169 children and youth (under the age of 25) living on the streets or in shelters in the City of Vancouver (2017 Homeless Count in Metro Vancouver).

Streetohome and Pacific Community Resources are collaborating on providing two five-bedroom substance-free recovery homes for youth. One home is for youth between the ages of 16 and 18, and the other for young adults between 19 and 25, who in addition to substance use issues may be at risk of homelessness and have mental health challenges.

Youth have a unique set of challenges and require intensive support, which includes individual and family clinical counselling, in-home group work, and linkages to medical services, community supports and employment training and education. If youth can address their substance use challenges – in a safe and supportive home environment – the likelihood of a successful transition to longer-term housing increases.

Youth Support Recovery Homes will offer:

• 2 homes located in the City of Vancouver with 5 bedrooms each, which will offer a respite and a safe place for 10 youth to seek treatment for up to six months.
• One home for youth between the ages of 16 and 18; second home for young adults between 19 and 25 transitioning into the community.
• Three staff members, or “houseparents” to reside in each home, which provides 24-hour support and contains operational costs.
• Collaboration with Vancouver Coastal Health clinical counsellors and addiction specialists to create a comprehensive addiction treatment plan, including after-care.
• Connections to PCRS Broadway Youth centre and associated housing, health, education and employment services.
• An adaptation of the evidence-based Foyer Housing model that provides individualized support for youth.

Streetohome has committed $100,000.