Youth services in Nova Scotia expand with the addition of two new integrated facilities

In a significant step towards strengthening universal access to mental healthcare and social services for all its residents, the government of Nova Scotia has announced plans to establish eight integrated youth service centres across the province.

The organizations involved in these centres include Mi'kmaq Family and Children Services, Nova Scotia Health, the Department of Community Services, YMCA, and various community partners such as ONE North End, Hope Blooms, North End Community Health Centre, Undercurrent Youth Society, Cape Breton Youth Project, BGC Cape Breton, YMCA Greater Halifax/Dartmouth, and New Dawn Enterprises.

The first site opened in April in Amherst, and two more are set to open in Halifax and Sydney. The remaining five centres will be established in Bridgewater, Eskasoni, a second Halifax location, New Glasgow, and Yarmouth by 2027. Each centre will offer walk-in support for mental health and social services.

Brian Comer, minister of Addictions and Mental Health, emphasized that these sites are run by people who care about their communities and offer support without judgement. He stated, "Improving access and removing barriers to these supports and services is one more way Nova Scotia is strengthening universal access to mental healthcare for all its residents."

The services provided at these centres will extend beyond mental health support. They will also offer help with employment, education, and training. The YMCA, with its long and proud history of youth development, especially in Halifax's north end, is committed to helping youth access deeper supports without barriers and reaching their potential together.

The IWK Foundation has committed to raising $10 million for these initiatives. The provincial government will spend $8.4 million over several years to set up the eight sites. These centres are part of the province's Action for Health plan to build universal access to mental health and addiction care for all Nova Scotians.

Anchor Youth Space Halifax, located at 2269 Gottingen St., is led by YMCA Greater Halifax/Dartmouth, and Anchor Youth Space Sydney, located at 37 Nepean St., is led by New Dawn Enterprises. Brian Posavad, president and CEO of YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth, stated that the strength of Anchor Youth Space Halifax lies in its integration.

These centres aim to provide counselling, peer support, life skills groups, and mental health and wellness services to youth aged 12-15. The centres will work towards improving access and removing barriers to these essential supports and services, ensuring that all young residents of Nova Scotia have the opportunity to thrive.