Powell River’s long-sought Foundry centre is edging closer to reality.
Foundry qathet will provide youth and their caregivers low barrier access to health and wellness services. Youth can drop-in to access mental, physical and sexual health services, along with substance use services, youth and family peer support and social services.
After being granted the incredible opportunity to bring Foundry to the community in 2023, Foundry qathet project manager Delyth Harper says a centrally located site has been selected and the space plan, which has been designed and shaped by extensive feedback from youth, caregivers and service partners, is in its final stages of review.
Construction is expected to begin this fall, with doors projected to open in late 2026.
The Government of British Columbia provides one-time start-up funding to help establish Foundry centres. Beyond this initial support, Foundry host agencies must fundraise to complete the one-time funding needed to open their centres, including tailoring their spaces to the unique needs of their communities.
The Foundry qathet team has launched a capital campaign to cover the remaining costs of renovations, furnishings and essential equipment. Once the centre is open, it will receive guaranteed ongoing operational funding from the province.
“We have applied for many grants locally, provincially and federally,” says Harper. “Now we look to the community to get behind the project and support better care for youth.”
Communications lead Alice Ward Cameron encourages residents to support the project by enjoying Fish and Chips at Garden Court or attending the Bevvy and Burger Night at Forest Bistro on July 29th, both of which donate a portion of proceeds to the cause.
“Businesses can contribute through donations, silent-auction prizes or feature a special menu item with proceeds going to Foundry qathet,” says Ward Cameron.
Now is the time for the community to seize this rare chance to transform care for youth. Donations are accepted online at youthandfamily.ca/donate, by cheque or at community events.
“Youth voices are central to the development of Foundry qathet. The Youth Advisory Committee crafted the centre’s guiding principle: to create a safe, youth-centred community space for accessible resources and services.”
“Local youth have asked for practical amenities such as lockers, laundry, a community kitchen, clothing closet and drop-in space; the plan makes room for all of these,” adds Harper. “Existing youth service providers will co-locate or partner, so that young people walking in will receive the support they need”
This past year, over 17,000 young people accessed Foundry services through more than 83,000 visits to 17 Foundry centres across British Columbia and Foundry Virtual BC. Of those youth, one in four said they wouldn’t have sought help if Foundry didn’t exist, and 97 per cent would recommend Foundry to a friend.
“Young people know that Foundry is more than a resource. It’s a place where support is available, accessible, inclusive, and designed with their unique needs in mind.”
Youth in Powell River and the qathet region can already access services through the Foundry BC app or website.
“Foundry Virtual BC means nobody has to wait for the building to feel supported,” says Ward Cameron.
But both Harper and Ward Cameron agree that Foundry qathet will be a transformational youth-friendly space for young people to build community, learn life skills and seek help without judgment.
“When those doors open,” adds Harper, “young people and their families will no longer have to ask where can we go for help.”
For more information and to donate today, visit www.foundrybc.ca/qathet, or call 604.485.3090.
