From sandals to snowshoes, the temperatures are dropping, precipitation is on the rise, and vulnerable youth, once again, face the challenges that winter brings.
We’re pleased to announce the launch of a new program in partnership with BC Housing: as of Friday, November 1, the new Winter Shelter program opened at the 1302 Seymour Street location of Covenant House.
What is the Winter Shelter program?
The Winter Shelter program will replace the emergency weather program that was available for youth last year when temperatures dropped. The Winter Shelter program is open daily, not weather dependent, and provides greater access to help support more young people.
The Winter Shelter program is available for youth, age 19–24, and will be open every evening from 10pm–8:30am, from November 1 until March 31. It is a 10-bed program located on the second floor of the 1302 Seymour Street building, which is home to Covenant House’s Drop-In Centre.
The fact that the beds are available every night means that regardless of conditions, a young person will know that there is shelter available. This also means that Covenant House Vancouver will be able to provide dedicated staff to this program, so that youth will be able to access wraparound support.
“The Winter Shelter program is more than just a safe space to rest,” says Chelsea Minhas, Chief Program and Impact Officer at CHV. “It says to youth that we see you, you matter, and we are here to support you when you need it.”
“With BC’s current housing market, young people face many barriers when trying to access secure, safe, and affordable housing.” Chelsea added. “They are faced with navigating complex systems while also navigating challenges such as trauma, mental health, and aging out of the foster care system. By providing a safe, warm place to sleep at night, the Winter Shelter program enables us to meet the immediate needs of a young person, and build relationships in order to show the various ways that we can support, and connect youth to resources and services that are available in the community.”
More than just a bed
For a young person, like Jane, a warm, safe place to sleep can be the first step towards health and wellness.
Jane had spent many years either homeless or in foster care. She began to frequent Covenant House’s Drop-In Centre, where she would watch movies and use the computer. Her years of homelessness led Jane to mistrust service providers, so her interactions with Covenant House staff were superficial.
As the weather became colder and more inclement, Jane was told about the emergency weather program that would be available. Jane initially declined and said that she would figure something out.
One night, cold, tired, and without a place to stay, Jane accessed the emergency weather program. In addition to a safe place to sleep, Jane was given a hot meal and warm clothes. As time went on, Jane would visit the Drop-In Centre daily and continued to access the emergency weather program regularly. Jane began to trust Covenant House staff more and more.
Due to the trust that Covenant House staff had built with Jane, they were able to work with Jane to secure her a basement suite, with a roommate.
Jane still frequents Covenant House’s Drop-In Centre and is opening up to staff about her life. Over time, Covenant House staff hope to be able work with Jane and connect her with the support and services that she needs to improve her overall wellness.
It all started with a warm, safe place to sleep.
Covenant House Vancouver would like to thank BC Housing for their support and for making the Winter Shelter program a reality in Vancouver. Together, we are stronger. Together, we can help youth create the futures they deserve.