Covenant House Vancouver’s mission is to provide a safe and welcoming space for young people, aged 16 to 24, who are at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness. In addition to meeting their basic needs, we recognize the importance of extracurricular activities in fostering holistic well-being for our young people in our care.
In our Crisis Program, we offer 60 beds and prioritize meeting the basic needs of young people, to ensure that they have a safe place to sleep, nutritious food, warm clothing, and access to showers. Our facility accommodates female-identified and male-identified youth, including 2SLGBTQAI+, genderqueer, gender non-binary, and self-identified individuals. Beyond immediate needs, we provide wraparound services, including employment and education support, access to mental health professionals, and assistance in transitioning to independence.
The youth, age 16–24, come to us for various reasons — from fleeing abusive relationships to being rejected by their families due to sexual orientation. Many have endured trauma and hardship, which emphasizes the importance and need for a supportive environment.
Purposeful Activities and Creating Safe Spaces
Youth workers at Covenant House curate a variety of activities tailored to the diverse interests and needs of the youth we support. From outings to the movies, parks, and recreational activities like skating, to yoga, cooking classes, and art sessions, our goal is to provide opportunities for fun, relaxation, and social connection.
These activities are not just recreational; they create a safe space where young people can momentarily escape the complexities of their lives. Our youth workers invest time in crafting activities that allow young people to let go of worries, connect with peers, and build trusting relationships.
From art and books to game nights and cooking classes, our extracurricular activities cater to a spectrum of interests. These activities go beyond mere pastimes; they contribute to the overall well-being of the youth, and offer moments of joy and respite amid challenging circumstances.
Extracurricular activities at Covenant House Vancouver play a pivotal role in the lives of young people in crisis. They are not just diversions; they are transformative experiences that provide a reprieve from life’s challenges. Through purposeful engagement and supportive environments, we aim to empower youth to build brighter futures beyond their current struggles.
Head over to our Instagram to check out what the youth have been up to recently.