Durham Youth Services is passionate about ending youth homelessness in Durham Region.
Since 2008 we’ve operated Joanne’s House to provide safe shelter for youth experiencing homelessness. And, while we remain Durham’s only youth-focused emergency shelter, today we offer so much more! We are a registered charity with programs and wrap-around supports focused on youth homelessness prevention, rapid rehousing and housing stabilization.
We work with youth to achieve lasting solutions to their housing crisis because everyone deserves a safe and stable place to call home.
Our Guiding Principles are rooted in the successful Housing First for Youth model. These principles provide the foundation for everything we do.
- Housing Stabilization with No Preconditions
- Youth Choice, Youth Voice, and Self-Determination
- Positive Youth Development and Wellness Orientation
- Individualized, Client-Driven Supports that are Equitable and Culturally Appropriate
- Social Inclusion and Community Integration
- Connection to Family and Natural Supports
- Cross-Systems Collaboration and Accountability
OUR IMPACT
Years in Operation
Distinct Programs that help youth at-risk of or experiencing homelessness
%
Helping youth find safe housing without needing to access the shelter system
%
Of youth who wanted to return home, were able to with our support
Totals above based on Apr. 1, 2023 to Mar. 31, 2024 fiscal year.
Check out our 2023-2024 Annual Impact Report for more details about how we make a difference to our clients and community.
Click picture to open the report.
I feel so appreciated, and helped right now. You guys gave me the confidence to go out on my own, and be independent. Its okay if what you are going through is too big to handle, because there is always a staff there (at DYS) to connect with, and support you through it.
Since leaving the shelter, I have working part time to pay for rent and food. I am also attending school, and going to church. I have my interview coming up soon for my permanent residency and I am looking forward to thanking all the people that have helped me along the way.
When I got a place to stay, I was really scared. I thought I had to start from scratch, which I did, but you guys gave me the Fresh Start Kit , helped me get together rent money, and really didn’t expect it. I don’t think anyone else does that really. Since I left the shelter, I have been working with Connor, he has managed to support with housing, which is like something big really, it is a new change in my life being in a new place. The support you shared in finding me a counselor in one way or another has helped me to better myself personally and see things in a better perspective.
Names and photos associated with quotes have been changed to preserve confidentiality.