At Covenant House Vancouver, our commitment to supporting youth on their journey toward independent living has taken a significant step forward with the complete overhaul of our Rights of Passage program. This upgrade to the Pender Street building aims to provide a safe haven and a robust support network for youth in need.
Doubling Capacity for Impact
With other programs at full capacity and a pressing housing affordability crisis, we recognized the urgency to expand. Our renovation will see an increase from 25 beds to 44 beds, almost doubling the program’s capacity. This expansion is not just about numbers; it’s about ensuring that every youth receives the same high-quality services provided at our other sites.
Creating a Home of Dignity and Support
Through this renovation, we’re dedicated to crafting an environment that instills safety and dignity for youth who may not have experienced that before. Our goal is to help them recognize their inherent worth and foster a sense of empowerment.
From Shelter to Sanctuary: Feedback-Driven Design
The input from both staff and youth played a crucial role in shaping this transformation. We’ve taken their concerns to heart and focused on making these spaces truly feel like home. Redesigned bathrooms now offer more storage, and include medicine cabinets, to ensure a hygienic and organized space.
Our lounges are designed to feel inviting and comfortable, and resemble your living room at home. The larger first-floor lounge will be a vibrant space with fun colours and furniture that echo a university lounge feel, rather than the traditional shelter atmosphere.
This upgrade brings forth a variety of exciting new spaces, that include a fitness centre, and a large hangout space for movie nights, family meals, and big community dinners. A beautiful rooftop patio and a gorgeous patio on the second floor offer natural and uplifting airspaces for gardening, barbecues, and group hangouts. Having a safe space to be in nature and get fresh air on site is so important for these young people.
Empowering Through Education: The Teaching Kitchen
One of the most thrilling additions is the teaching kitchen—a space where youth can learn essential cooking skills together. This is where they will get hands-on training and the time and space to practice their culinary skills. This quintessential skill will contribute to their independence and self-sufficiency.
Gratitude for Your Support
As we embark on this transformative journey, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your continued support. Your commitment is invaluable, and we appreciate that you show up for the young people who need it the most. Together, we are making a lasting impact and creating a brighter future for those we serve.
For a behind the scenes look at our renovations, visit us on Instagram.
Thank you for being a vital part of our mission at Covenant House Vancouver. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to transform lives!