First look at Youth Haven Canada’s new emergency shelter

Youth Haven Canada is offering a first look at its newly built emergency shelter in Barrie, a project designed to provide a safe and supportive space for at-risk youth experiencing homelessness across the region.

The new facility located on Wellington Street East, replaces the former shelter that stood on the property for nearly 13 years. After months of repairs and ongoing maintenance, the organization made the decision to construct a modern, purpose-built building on the same site.

Built in partnership with the Simcoe County Home Builders’ Association, construction on the new shelter began in October 2024.

Once open, the home will be able to accommodate just over 30 youth between the ages of 16 and 24. Staff says the typical stay is up to 45 days but that is a negotiable period.

“Every member of our community has stepped up and walked alongside us on this journey. I think a lot of people have a soft spot for our youth,” says Lucy Gowers, executive director of Youth Haven. “Many of the kids in our care want to be seen, heard, and supported, and that is what we are here for. Our community believes in investing in the future, and there is no better investment in the future than our youth.”

Youth Haven Canada raised nearly $650,000 toward the $1 million needed to complete the build. Beyond emergency housing, the new shelter will act as a hub for essential services including case management, counselling, employment and education supports, health care, and outreach.

The goal? To eventually transition youth into a more permanent setting once their time has been fulfilled at the shelter.

“The first step is to bring someone into a shelter but that doesn’t end their homelessness, homelessness ends when they get a permanent address and a place to call home,” states Mina Doe with the County of Simcoe.

The project is now in its final stages, according to the team behind the project.

In an early December social media post the group shared that gas service has been unlocked and furnaces are operational, the water meter is installed, plumbing is functional, and the driveway has been paved.

Fire alarms are active, interior stair railings are in place, and benches have been built in counselling rooms. Basement flooring is nearly complete, with finishing work and inspections still to come.

A crane arrived earlier this month to install emergency stairs.

“We are so much more than just an emergency shelter, we offer transitional housing programs,” says Gowers.

Youth Haven has been helping vulnerable young people in Simcoe County for more than 35 years, supporting about 300 of them annually.