At StepStones, youth find belonging and connection in their community with people who care about and support them unconditionally. Youth are connected with mentors, long-term community allies, forever families, and permanent caregivers. Our workers support youth in developing a strong network of caring people that they can depend on for life.
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Youth are supported in obtaining stable, long-term housing as the first priority. Youth are assisted in locating housing that meets individual needs, viewing properties, moving in, and setting up spaces. Housing grants are provided when required. StepStones also connects youth with individuals from their personal networks and supports their transition to secure housing with these new caregivers who receive ongoing support in their role.
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StepStones provides early intervention to reduce school dropout and increase achievement. Youth are assisted in attaining their educational goals through
one-to-one support with academic work, housing grants to ensure youth can attend school with their basic needs met, and ongoing educational counselling to support school engagement, high school graduation, and post-secondary enrolment. -
Mental and physical health and well-being are improved for youth at StepStones. Workers connect youth with physicians and counsellors and provide support with and accompaniment to appointments. Youth participate in mindfulness, meditation, and yoga workshops; engage in active fitness challenges; learn to cook healthy meals; and stabilize their mental health to be able to succeed in school.