There is no cookie cutter approach at North Hastings Youth Wellness Hub.
Everyone that walks through the door has a different life experience, says Jessica Anderson, CEO of North Hastings Children’s Services, which oversees the hub.
“We try to look at what they need individually. They need a space to go…a spot they can be themselves, access services, find experiences they can’t get anywhere else.”
The hub acts as one-stop shopping of sorts for the community’s younger generation, with 25-30 stopping in on some nights.
Anderson said there is a strong philosophy in place of not turning anyone away.
There is a big variance in ages, from 12-25. Some access mental health and social supports, others are looking for friendship and someone to hang out with.
Anderson said the hub is co-led by Children’s Mental Health Services and staff includes a nurse practitioner with primary care and mental health experience.
Youth can drop in on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to connect with clinicians about mental health, substance abuse, or to just chat.
Anderson says there are youth hooked on drugs in Bancroft and area, like everywhere else.
“There are some great success stories that we see…some have recovered…some have helped each other out through drug addiction…the impact itself is significant.”
Some youth stop in to hang out with peers or learn something new. Last week, a Red Seal chef helped youth make their own dough and personal pizzas.
Anderson said offering multiple services works for a smaller community like Bancroft, and the plan is to grow both the physical space and programs.
Capital funding has been secured to renovate the second floor at 141 Hastings Street.
Renovations will include new showers, laundry, more clinical space and an education room to support youth that are unsuccessful in a regular school environment. There will also be a kitchen for meal programs and a pool table.
“If you build it they will come and we are growing…we are excited about providing more services.”
