Phoenix Youth Programs is receiving a $75,000 grant from Medavie Health Foundation to support mental health programming for under-supported youth and youth experiencing homelessness, including identification of mental health concerns, intervention, clinical therapy and health care navigation.

Using a wrap-around, holistic approach, Phoenix supports youth aged 11 – 24 in meeting their immediate needs, both mental and physical, while addressing barriers to access. Addressing mental health concerns is often the first step in helping youth on their journey to resilience and healthy, sustainable independence.

Through the Foundation, Medavie supports community-based programs aligned with child and youth mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder, and type 2 diabetes. Since late 2011, Medavie Health Foundation has committed over $10.8 million to single and multi-year grant and partnership programs. For information on the 2018 Grants Program, or to apply, visit medaviehealthfoundation.ca.

This funding was announced at a reception in Halifax marking Medavie’s 75-year milestone of caring for Canadians, with partner representatives and stakeholders in attendance.

Quick Facts

• Of the over 800 youth who access services at Phoenix each year, some 62% identify mental health as a priority concern.
• A 2016 survey on youth homelessness in Canada revealed that 85% of respondents experience high symptoms of psychological distress; 42% reported at least one suicide attempt and 35% were hospitalized at least once because of an overdose.*
• Young people aged 13 to 24 make up approximately 20% of the homeless population in Canada. On any given night, 6,000 – 7,000 young people experience homelessness.*
• The school drop-out rate in Canada is below 9%; for homeless youth, it is 53%.*

Associated Links

Phoenix
*Without a Home: The National Youth Homelessness Survey