Stratford/Perth Shelter Link

Overview

Stratford/Perth Shelter Link is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting youth in Perth County who experience homelessness or are at risk of homelessness. The organization focuses on providing shelter, advocacy services, and meeting basic needs for individuals aged 16-24.

History

Stratford/Perth Shelter Link traces its origins back to 1989 when an Ad Hoc Committee called "Youth Housing Needs" was established. In 1991, the organization received a provincial grant and formed Stratford and Area Access to Independent Living, or S.A.A.I.L. The same year, the Black Swan Coffee House Revival was initiated as a fundraising effort for S.A.A.I.L. By 1992, S.A.A.I.L. opened Harbour House, which offered accommodation for young men aged 16-21.

Mission

The mission of Stratford/Perth Shelter Link is to support youth through a comprehensive approach of prevention, advocacy, shelter provision, and community connection services. Their goal is to make youth homelessness in Perth County a rare, brief, and non-recurring experience[3].

Programs

One of the organization's main programs is LOFY (Living Opportunities for Youth), which focuses on providing support and opportunities to housing-insecure youth aged 16-24[2][5]. Stratford/Perth Shelter Link emphasizes core values such as excellence in service, integrity in work, respect for all, kindness, and responsibility to the community[3].

Funding

The organization is supported by grants from entities such as the Orr Family Fund and the Stratford Smart & Caring Community Fund, both held with the Stratford Perth Community Foundation[1].

Service Enhancement

Stratford/Perth Shelter Link continually aims to enhance its organizational capacity, improve community relationships, and advocate for youth at risk of becoming homeless[3].