Covenant House Vancouver

Overview

Covenant House Vancouver is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to serving youth between the ages of 16 and 24 who are at risk or experiencing homelessness. Founded in 1997, it provides a continuum of care that includes street outreach, drop-in spaces, and short-term and long-term housing programs. The organization is registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) under the business number 897675625RR0001.

Approach and Values

As a trauma-informed agency, Covenant House Vancouver recognizes the impact of trauma on the youth they serve and incorporates principles of Immediacy, Sanctuary, Value Communication, Structure, and Choice into their programs and services. The organization operates with a "One Size Fits One" model, tailoring support to each individual's needs.

Programs and Services

Covenant House Vancouver offers 24-hour, 365-day support services, including:

• Street Outreach: Engaging with youth directly on the streets to provide initial support and resources.
• Drop-in Space: A safe place where youth can access basic necessities and support services.
• Short-term and Long-term Housing Programs: Providing transitional housing to help youth transition to independent living.

In partnership with local health services, Covenant House also offers comprehensive wraparound care, ensuring that youth receive the necessary support to stabilize their lives.

Impact

The organization serves an average of 124 youth daily and provides over 119,000 nutritious meals annually. Covenant House Vancouver helps hundreds of youth each year to transition from homelessness to stable, independent living through education and employment support.

Context and Importance

Homelessness among young people is a significant issue in Canada, with approximately 40,000 youth experiencing homelessness annually. Covenant House Vancouver plays a crucial role in addressing this challenge by providing a supportive environment where youth can find safety and develop the skills needed to thrive.