Kingston, ON (April 20, 2017) The United Way of Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington is pleased to announce that the Kingston Youth Shelter will open a new transitional home for homeless youth. A celebration will take place with an open house on Tuesday, April 25, from 3 to 5 p.m. at its location on 294 Elmwood Street.
A dedication ceremony will be held at 3:30 p.m. to recognize the contributions of all who helped make it possible, notably the United Way’s Honourary Patron and local philanthropist A. Britton Smith who made the transformational gift of $1.2 million that enabled the new home to open.
“What we need is to get these kids off the street, provide a home and someone to look after them,” says Mr. Smith. The home is for youth, ages 16-19. Staff will be on site offering support 24-hours a day.
Jason Beaubiah is Executive Director of Kingston Youth Shelter. “Facilities like this reduce the number of youth in our shelter. Living for a time in this home will give them a supportive environment to gain the skills they need to transition to independent living.”
The United Way is working with partners and youth on a plan to end youth homelessness. “This is a step in the right direction,” says Caroline Davis, United Way KFLA Board Chair. “This facility will have a significant impact for local youth who are homeless.”
About United Way of KFL&A
United Way works with individuals, organizations and key partners to build and strengthen our community, bringing people and resources together to facilitate change. Our vision is a future where people are self-sufficient in a community where individuals live with hope, dignity and a sense of belonging.
Visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca for more information.
About Kingston Youth Shelter
Our services help youth stabilize, grow, develop, and work towards their goals for independent living. We provide youth with the acceptance, empathy, and support that they need in order to transition successfully into young adulthood. At KYS, homeless does not mean hopeless.
Visit www.kingstonyouthshelter.com for more information.
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Media Contacts:
Bhavana Varma, President & CEO , United Way KFLA
613-542-2674, ext. 1101, bvarma@unitedwaykfla.ca
Jason Beaubiah, Executive Director, Kingston Youth Shelter
613-766-3200, Jason@kingstonyouthshelter.com
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