The Kenora Youth Wellness Hub is getting funding from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund to fix up their building.
Jennifer Dreaver is executive director of the Kenora Chiefs Advisory which operates the hub and says they are getting $500,000.
“We wanted to be able to bring that extra support,” Dreaver said at the Youth Wellness Hub announcement on Thursday.
“So a pantry can help support extra clothing and food, you know, toiletries and other things. Showering and laundry. Just basic needs.”
Dreaver adds that many of the renovations to their building were recommended by the people who actually the facility.
“The wish list around the improvements has been informed by the youth themselves. I think one of the beautiful aspects of this model really champions co-creation of this space and programming with the youth, participants and clients.”
Chair of the Heritage Fund Corporation Greg Rickford says the Hub serves a much needed purpose in the community.
“Ensuring we make the best efforts to keep our most vulnerable out and off the streets and a place for them that can serve as a bit of a compass and a support where they can access other services and programs that reduce their vulnerability.”
The funding will also allow them to install a full kitchen and renovate both the front and back facades of the building.
