VIDEO: New Dawn and community partners recognized for Anchor Youth Space Sydney
IYS sites provide crucial mental health and wellness support for youth and caregivers
On Thursday, Brian Comer, Minister of Addictions and Mental Health, recognized New Dawn and community partners BCG Cape Breton, Undercurrent Youth Society, and the Cape Breton Youth Project for providing crucial mental health services for youth and their caregivers in Sydney.
Anchor Youth Space Sydney opened in September as part of the provincial Integrated Youth Services (IYS) initiative designed to provide community-based programming, resources, and services to support youth aged 12 to 25.
“Young people can walk in and find comfortable, welcoming spaces where they can access counselling, peer support, life skills groups, mental health services and help with employment, education and training,” Minister Comer said, inviting all members of the House to congratulate the community organizations for their work.
The Minister also recognized IYS sites in Halifax and Amherst. The province has committed to opening a total of eight IYS sites across the province by 2027. The IYS model offers a “one-stop shop” where youth and their caregivers can access a range of services without the need for appointments or fees. Each IYS site is developed with significant input from youth and caregivers to ensure the services meet local needs.
Located at the New Dawn Centre in Northend Sydney, Anchor Sydney is a safe, judgement-free space for making new friends, accessing mentorship and leadership opportunities, and taking part in free programming like cooking classes, paint nights, and one-on-one mental health consultations.
Learn more about Anchor Youth Space Sydney here.