2024 Campaign

Natalie came to YESS when she was 15. At her young age and with a long list of unsafe and unhealthy living situations she had already experienced, Natalie worked with our Wellness Integration Team to identify what she needed to feel safe and healthy.

When she turned 16, Natalie had more autonomy over her choices for her future. We were able to support her goals and help her navigate the ups and downs of a medical diagnosis, reunification with her family, and finding the right housing placement.

Natalie now lives independently in supportive housing. Her reconnection with her family has been slow, but she has the support team she needs to keep herself safe and healthy through this ongoing journey. The foundation of autonomy and self-discovery Natalie built at YESS continues to empower her.

Keep a light on for youth in crisis and donate today

Content warning: mental health crisis and suicidal ideation

Finn came to YESS in severe mental health crisis. Unable to regulate their suicidal ideation and outward behaviours, Finn couldn’t stay at home.

When Finn came to YESS, we supported their mental health needs with our Wellness Integration Team, safety planning, and mental health first aid. We also had conversations with their parents on what supports they would need for Finn to be able to return home.

With the stability provided at YESS, Finn was able to break to cycle of sleeping rough. From that foundation, we worked with Finn on medication support, curfew support, communication, and life skills development.

Through all this work, Finn was able to return home to their family. The positive foundation built at YESS means Finn’s family was more prepared to support them, and Finn continues to go to therapy and access community resources.

Keep a light on for youth in crisis and donate today