The Bridge Youth & Family Services Society

The Bridge Youth & Family Services Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting youth and families in the Central Okanagan region of British Columbia. Established over 50 years ago, it serves as a critical provider of mental health, addiction, and family support services, primarily focusing on children and youth under the age of 19 and their families.

Mission and Vision

The organization aims to foster emotional wellness, build strong family relationships, and promote successful futures for vulnerable youth and their families. It emphasizes a trauma-informed and strength-based approach, ensuring services are culturally sensitive and community-connected.

Services and Programs

The Bridge offers a wide range of programs addressing substance use, mental health, family counseling, and youth development:

• Youth Services: These include counseling and support for youth aged 11 to 18, with special programs for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth and their allies, such as weekly social activities and empowering discussions. The Youth Recovery House is a key program providing live-in support for young people aged 12 to 18 experiencing problematic substance use, especially for those with complex mental health and addiction needs. The program offers a continuum of care including withdrawal management, stabilization, treatment, and after-care.

• Family Counseling and Support: The organization provides assessment, intervention, counseling, modeling, and education aimed at strengthening family functioning and promoting safe, healthy, and nurturing family environments. These services often involve referrals through the Ministry of Children & Family Development.

• Addiction and Withdrawal Management: Specialized support for substance use, including intensive live-in programs and supported recovery housing, is a significant aspect of The Bridge’s offerings.

• Parent Education and Support: Programs designed to assist parents in building competencies and fostering positive family dynamics.

• Pregnancy Nutrition and Wellness: Services targeting the health and wellness of pregnant individuals and their families.

Operational Scope

The Bridge Youth & Family Services Society operates multiple sites in Kelowna and surrounding areas, including the Central Okanagan. It works closely with the Interior Health Authority as the largest provider of substance use services in the region.

Accreditation and Impact

As an accredited agency, The Bridge has been a trusted resource for vulnerable families, offering community and culturally connected supports that promote resilience and recovery. Its integrated, comprehensive programs have made it a cornerstone in the Okanagan community for young people and their families dealing with complex social and health challenges.

This overview reflects The Bridge Youth & Family Services Society’s commitment to providing accessible, holistic support tailored to the unique needs of youth and families in British Columbia’s Interior Health region.