Community and Housing Services
If you or your family are struggling to meet some of your basic needs, you are not alone. We are here to help you feel safe and cared for. YSB community services are designed to provide food, shelter, safety, health services — and even a sense of belonging — for those who otherwise might go without.
Downtown Services and Drop-in
The Downtown Drop‑in provides a safe and welcoming place for youth (aged 12 to 20) living on the streets or in poverty. From here, youth can access a full range of services to help them address whatever challenges they face.
Housing and Shelter
Housing and shelter at YSB is much more than a place to live. We offer multiple services and housing programs to suit young people in a variety of life situations.
- Young Women's Shelter
- Young Men's Shelter
- Transitional Housing Program for young women
- Transitional Housing Program for young men
- Long-Term Housing Program
Ethno-Cultural Community Program
Operating out of the Downtown Services and Drop-in Centre, this program provides Ottawa’s immigrant and ethno-cultural youth and their families with crisis intervention support and referrals and improved access to community resources and services.
HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C (HCV) Prevention Education Program
This program provides information about HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C (HCV) through educational workshops and resources that are developed and delivered by program staff and youth.
Housing Plus services and Trusteeship
Available to all youth (aged 16-20) who need help finding and maintaining housing, this program ensures that young people’s needs are met and their rights are respected. Program staff also act as trustees for youth under the age of 18 who are recipients of Ontario Works benefits.
Spectrum LGBTQ+ Community Youth Group
YSB provides workshops, discussion groups, and art collaborations, as well as counselling services, peer mentoring, and primary care resources through the (youth-led) Spectrum group.
Youth Health Clinic
This drop-in health clinic provides youth with easy access to free primary health care services, such as medical, dental and sexual health clinics. Youth can also get help with mental health issues and addictions.
