Our Programs
unique programs for Youth
At VYES we dedicate ourselves to helping youth and their families achieve their goals while respecting their individuality and recognizing their diverse and sometimes challenging needs. Our commitment to healthy lifestyle choices creates an atmosphere where youth can feel safe and supported as they progress toward their goals. We believe everyone should be treated with equality, dignity, respect, and acceptance.
Our Programs
The Alliance Club
The Alliance Club is a downtown drop-in program for youth ages 13–19. It offers a safe, welcoming space where young people can access meals, showers, laundry, hygiene supplies, and support from caring staff.
Kiwanis Emergency Youth Shelter (KEYS)
KEYS is a 10-bed emergency shelter for youth ages 13–18 experiencing crisis, including family conflict, abuse, or homelessness. Youth receive a safe place to stay and individualized support to help them stabilize and plan for what comes next.
Specialized Youth Detox (SYD)
SYD is a five-bed voluntary, non-medical withdrawal management program for youth ages 13–18. The program provides short-term residential support focused on safe withdrawal, stabilization, and connection to ongoing recovery supports.
Youth Food Pantry
The Youth Food Pantry provides free groceries, hygiene supplies, clothing, and household essentials to youth ages 13–19. The program also offers workshops focused on cooking, meal planning, and budgeting.
Life Skills Program
The Life Skills Program supports youth ages 13–19 in building confidence and practical skills such as healthy relationships, time management, and self-esteem. Youth work one-on-one with staff to set goals and strengthen everyday life skills.
Supported Independent Living (SIL)
SIL supports youth ages 16–24 as they transition to adulthood. The program helps young people build independent living skills through housing support, life skills development, and individualized guidance.
Youth & Family Support Services (YFSS)
YFSS provides counselling, outreach, and family support for youth ages 12–19 and their parents or caregivers. The program helps strengthen relationships, improve well-being, and build skills to navigate challenges together.
Youth Services Outreach (YSOT)
YSOT provides immediate support to youth ages 12–19 and their families who are facing challenges or crisis. The program focuses on early intervention, prevention, and connection to appropriate services.
Queer Youth Connections (QYC)
Queer Youth Connections is a welcoming program for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 13–19. The program fosters belonging, celebrates identity, and connects youth with peers, resources, and trusted adults.
Youth Wellness Program
The Youth Wellness Program supports youth ages 13–24 to build connection, resilience, and life skills through group activities and workshops, including art, cooking, health education, and recreational outings.
Griffin Housing Support Fund
The Griffin Housing Support Fund provides emergency financial assistance to help youth secure or maintain safe and stable housing. Support may include rent, damage deposits, and essential household items.