This 24-foot RV travels primarily around Nanaimo's core to help vulnerable youth who are homeless or living rough. (submitted/Nanaimo Aboriginal Centre)

By Spencer Sterritt

on the streets

New youth outreach unit rolls out in Nanaimo

Oct 20, 2020 | 5:30 AM

NANAIMO — The Nanaimo Aboriginal Centre is hitting Nanaimo’s streets with a new youth outreach program.

The program, known as Ts’its’uw’atul’ in the Hul’q’umín’um’ Coast Salish Language, recently rolled out with a 24-foot RV. It allows staff to reach youth in need on the street, rather than asking them to travel.

Joel Harry, director of program development at the Centre, told NanaimoNewsNOW they provide supplies, a safe space and access to other services at a critical time.

“It’s getting worse,” Harry said of the situation on Nanaimo streets. “It’s also getting a lot more unsafe. I think with the colder weather people are starting to get more anxious and make less responsible choices.”

The RV was only recently unveiled but Harry said key connections are being made between outreach staff and at-risk youth living rough.

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“They’re already starting to develop and maintain relationships with some of the community’s most vulnerable youth. Through these relationships we’ll be able to support youth with further connections, goal setting and connection to culture.”

Harry said it’s hoped more services can be offered from the mobile outreach RV as more local organizations pitch in to help the most vulnerable.

The program is funded from the federal government through to the end of March, 2021.

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @SpencerSterritt