Improving Lives of Vulnerable Youth

Winnipeg consistently has the highest rate of robbery, sexual assault, and violent crime of any large Canadian city.

The Salvation Army’s Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre’s youth drop-in program not only provides a safe alternative to the streets, but its staff and volunteers are mentors who support youth, ages 13-17, when they need it most. 

“The youth drop-in program is open during critical hours when kids aren’t in school,” says Hurmat Habib, mentor. “It isn’t just about playing basketball in the gym or participating in karaoke in the lounge. Many kids are newcomers who’ve come from difficult situations.

“As we build trust, we get to know their needs and challenges. We are a listening ear for kids from single-parent families, a community connection for kids searching for employment, a friendly face for the lonely, a place for conversation for those with language barriers and more.”

Four years ago, Robert’s family came to Canada from Ethiopia for a better life. Before long, his father came to the centre’s English café, where he improved his language skills and met new friends. But Robert, then age 10, had trust issues and refused to come.

Now, Robert, 14, looks forward to coming to the centre where he hangs out with friends, has improved his basketball skills and enjoys field trips that his dad can’t afford. Wanting to give back to his community he now volunteers with the centre’s food bank.  

“I’ve met most of my friends here,” says Robert. “We are like one big family. I feel safe and coming here gets me out of my apartment and my room.” 

“In a culturally diverse and vulnerable community, our programs are giving youth the tools they need to succeed,” says Major Roxanne Jennings, Executive Director. “As a result, we are seeing a stronger, safer community filled with self-confidence and belief in their abilities.”