Youth at risk of homelessness will soon be able to access additional support services at a new Langley Youth Resource Centre, which is scheduled for completion in July 2017. The B.C. government, local government and community partners gathered today to announce funding for the project.

The youth centre will replace a youth hub operated by Encompass Support Services Society that is open twice a week between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Approximately 80 youth visit the site to access health services and a hot meal.

The new five-bedroom modular home will offer more programming space to youth seven days a week – offering a safe space for vulnerable youth to seek counselling and medical services.

The Province is providing approximately $355,000 for the project. The Township of Langley is providing the land, valued at about $450,000.

The local youth homelessness task force, operated through the Langley School District, is contributing $18,000. The funding was raised by students who rallied together to raise awareness about youth homelessness in Langley.

The new Langley Youth Resource Centre will be located at 20285 62nd Ave.

(flickr.com)

Quotes:

Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development and Minister Responsible for Housing –

“I’ve been really impressed with the Township of Langley and their enthusiasm to work with all levels of government, municipalities and community partners to improve the infrastructure and support services needed for this growing community. The Langley Youth Resource Centre is just one of many great examples of the good work happening in Langley.”

Mayor Jack Froese, Township of Langley –

“The Township of Langley is pleased to contribute the land to our community partners, which will help provide our youth with a safe place they can call their own.”

Gordon Stewart, superintendent, Langley School District –

“The Langley School District is very appreciative of the funding from the B.C. government to support the establishment of the Langley Youth Resource Centre. This centre will provide temporary housing and community supports to provide a safe place for Langley youth to receive the services they require to meet their needs and a long-term commitment to ensuring these services remain in place. It’s a great day for Langley youth.”

Loren Roberts, director of operations and organizational development, Encompass Support Services Society –

“The Langley Youth Resource Centre is a perfect example of what strong collaborative partnerships with all levels of community and government can provide. A project that started with no funding, but a willingness by community to work together, the Langley Youth Resource Centre provides a platform to say that we care about, and have put the youth voice into action.”

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $4.9 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families.
• More than 104,000 B.C. households benefit from provincial social housing programs and services
• Last year, the Province invested more than $2.2 million to support emergency shelters and housing for the homeless in Langley.

Learn More:

The Homeless Prevention Program provides people at risk of homelessness – including youth 19 years and over – with rent supplements to help them access rental housing in the private market. More information can be found here: https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/homelessness-services/homeless-prevention-program

Individuals who are 19 years and over can apply for supportive and subsidized housing programs in B.C., given they meet the eligibility requirements. More information about these programs can be found here: https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance

For more information on affordable housing programs and the province’s efforts to end homelessness in B.C., please visit: www.housingmattersbc.ca/factsheets.html and www.bchousing.org

Follow BC Housing on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BC_Housing