Ongoing relationships with multiple youth have us journeying with them in their life as they become more adept in self-care and responsibilities. We supported 25 youth during this period with their individual substance use and/or health needs. Many youth are using harm reduction strategies to avoid harder drugs. The progress some youth have been making is encouraging to us.  Thirteen youth have been participating regularly with the tasks at the youth house and serving their peers in helpful ways like cleaning, dishes, cooking, and food preparation.  Two clients have been regularly attending our Volunteer in Training program to build healthy living habits and motivation in their post-treatment life.  One had significant setbacks but continues to be motivated towards sobriety and has re-integrated with the house.  We will extend Volunteer in Training opportunities to the “regulars” as a way of continuing to mentor and guide them in a volunteer position which gives them pride of workmanship and contribution in a space they call home. 

We have successfully found shelter for one more youth during this period.  The five others who continue to be housed successfully require food and emotional support which we continue to provide.  We provide weekly support of food, toiletries, and other supplies for 10 to 15 additional youth to support them retaining their current home or precarious shelter situations.  At Mission Youth (MY) House, we provide daily lunch and dinner for the youth with a later sit-down Family Style Meal on Wednesdays.  These are very popular with many coming throughout the open hours to enjoy the meal together.  Youth participate in food prep and cleaning while all sitting around the table together.  We celebrate each contribution and communicate our gratefulness for their presence in the house.