Youth Emergency Shelter Society of Edmonton (Y.E.S.S.)

The Youth Emergency Shelter Society of Edmonton (Y.E.S.S.), operating under the registered business number 129537437RR0001, is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting youth experiencing homelessness and crisis in the Edmonton metropolitan area. It is widely known by its operational name, Youth Empowerment & Support Services (YESS), and is recognized as a registered charity under the Canada Revenue Agency.

History

YESS was initially registered as a not-for-profit organization in 1978. Its primary shelter facility officially opened in 1982, located at 9310 82 Avenue in Edmonton. The main building has historical significance, originally constructed in 1905 as Edmonton Fire Hall No. 10. It later served as a shelter under the Salvation Army before being acquired by YESS in the early 1980s[4].

Mission and Services

YESS focuses on providing immediate, low-barrier emergency shelter and comprehensive support services for youth aged 15 to 24 who are experiencing crisis or homelessness. The organization operates a 24/7 Youth Support Centre that offers a safe place to stay along with access to physical, mental, cultural, and emotional health supports. Additionally, YESS runs Resource and Health Hubs during weekdays that include physical and mental health clinics and various youth-supporting resources[1][3].

Their comprehensive approach goes beyond providing shelter; YESS emphasizes individualized, wrap-around support aimed at both preventing youth homelessness and promoting long-term stability. This includes crisis intervention, temporary supportive housing, life skills development, and connection to community resources to help youth avoid re-entry into homelessness[2][3].

Programs and Facilities

• 24/7 Emergency Shelter: Provides overnight accommodation with a capacity of 24 beds, accessible at any time.
• Daytime Resource and Health Hubs: Offer clinics and support services Monday through Friday to address the holistic needs of youth.
• Transitional Housing: Temporary supportive housing options designed to aid youth in transitioning toward stable, independent living[1][2][5].

The facilities include the main shelter building noted for its Late Art Deco architectural style, along with auxiliary structures such as a gazebo and storage buildings on the property[4].

Collaboration and Community Role

YESS actively collaborates with multiple youth-serving agencies in Edmonton to leverage combined expertise and resources. This collaborative approach aims to improve service delivery, outcomes, and opportunities for young people facing crisis, homelessness, or marginalization[1][3].

Leadership and Recognition

YESS is governed by a board and led by an executive team committed to youth empowerment. The organization is a recognized leader in Edmonton for its holistic and youth-centered approach to homelessness prevention and support.

Y.E.S.S. remains a crucial institution in Edmonton’s social support landscape, dedicated to empowering vulnerable youth through shelter, health services, and community integration initiatives.