A New Haven for Youth Haven will blossom this summer.
The century-old home on Wellington Street East in Barrie will be torn down next month and rebuilt on the current property with a move-in date expected sometime in July.
According to Youth Haven executive director Lucy Gowers, the build is in collaboration with the Simcoe County Homebuilders' Association (SCHBA).
"About two summers ago now I connected with a number of organizations because we had some maintenance work that really needed to happen, and of course as a non-profit organization, we wanted to be fiscally responsible as we could. The SCHBA was invited to go through the shelter, which they did, and then from that everything just kind of happened."
Gowers said they are excited the SCHBA is part of this journey.
"They're an amazing group of individuals who are truly committed to what's best for the youth in our community and investing in the future."
Youth Haven provides shelter and services to at-risk youth and youth experiencing homelessness between ages 16 to 24.
Hundreds of youth rely on Youth Haven, and they come not only from the Barrie area but across the region.
Currently, the organization has 19 beds at the shelter and has a transitional house elsewhere in the city, along with providing outreach services.
The new facility will have 31 beds.
"We'll have 14 bedrooms on the upper level as well as two single beds on the main level and a room in the basement," said Gowers.
Barrie's News Delivered To Your Inbox
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Central Ontario Broadcasting, 431 Huronia Rd, Barrie, Ontario, CA, https://www.cobroadcasting.com. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
The beds on the main level can be used by kids with mobility issues and they can also be used along with the basement room as crisis beds.
The main level will also feature counselling rooms, a reception area, a doctor's and dental office and a main kitchen.
Grateful for the support from the SCHBA, Gowers said this project would not have been able to come together without the backing of the community.
"They've always been there for us," she said. "We have a $2 million capital campaign underway and we are currently at about $500,000."
"The work we're doing is valued work, and it's work that really allows us to invest in our youth."
The New Haven for Youth Haven campaign has received $100,000 from the Kiwanis Club of Barrie, and there is another donation of $100,000 to come from the Kiwanis Foundation of Canada.
"The staff, the youth and the community is energized about the new build. It's finally going to happen." said Gowers. "There will be a celebration once everyone has moved into the new home and gets settled. We want to acknowledge everyone who has gotten behind this project.
For more information, click here: newhavenbarrie.ca.
Banner image: Drawing of Youth Haven's planned new shelter on Wellington Street East (image provided)
