STREET TIES YOUTH OUTREACH

The Street Ties Program seeks to divert youth from street involvement that may lead to drug addiction and sexual exploitation through education, crisis support and early intervention. It functions as a link between youth and relevant services such as RCMP, Child Welfare, Local Shelters, Health Care and services as the need arises. Street Ties Outreach Workers engage youth at the street level to provide awareness and intervention through art projects, harm reduction, addictions counseling, referral and non-judgmental support. It includes the following components:

1) Community Education

• Provides educational presentations/training in Red Deer and the rural communities within Child and Family Services Authority Region 4, to inform youth of the risk factors (primarily drug addictions) that may lead to sexual exploitation and provide strategies to protect themselves from recruitment.
• The focus is on dispelling the myths surrounding prostitution and high risk behaviors associated with street life, and revealing the realities of drug use.
• Promote healthy lifestyle choices and the importance of being involved in positive activities.

2) Youth Outreach

• Outreach workers go out to the streets and areas populated by young people, to connect with youth at their level and offer non-judgmental and confidential support and services.

3) Youth Drop In Centre

• Targets “street involved” youth (aged 13-21) who have very little engagement with, or positive connection to society as a whole, giving them an opportunity to access information and services.
• Create opportunities for youth to make positive connections with safe and caring adults, and take initial steps towards healthier lifestyle choices.
• Environment promotes art as a means of self expression that is appropriate and respected.
• Access to computers, resource materials, referrals, personal supplies, shower, laundry facilities, lockers, food and support.
• The Youth Drop-In Centre is open Mondays and Tuesdays from 9 – 3pm and Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 – 4:30pm.

For more information or to make a referral, contact Parkland Youth Homes: (403) 340-8995

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