As the warm months approach, the Welcome Centre Shelter is excited to launch new programs for children, youth, and families. This summer, we’re focusing on healing, empowerment, and joyful memories through new partnerships, staff development, and community-building activities. We aim to bring hope, energy, and positivity to those who call the shelter home during these critical months.
One of the season’s most exciting additions is our Summer Camp Connections program, designed for children and youth residing in the shelter. Our goal is to place children in safe, enriching environments where they can play, learn, and thrive outside of the shelter. Through both day and overnight camps, youth experience a valuable break from the stress and routine of shelter life. These camp experiences foster resilience, emotional growth, and positive social development for every participating child. Thanks to CHC Camp, Tim Hortons Camp, and Kiwanis Camp, we’re offering unforgettable experiences to the kids we serve. We ensure that each child has everything they need—sneakers, swimsuits, and more—to enjoy their time at camp fully. These camps are more than an escape; they’re part of each child’s healing journey toward confidence and joy.
We’re also investing in the people who support and guide our shelter families each day—our dedicated staff. A new training program is being developed to help staff better serve families facing trauma, instability, and crisis. Training includes topics like trauma response, building trust with children, and supporting parents and youth in distress. It also covers child welfare policies and recognizes emotional, physical, and sexual abuse and neglect in various situations. Staff will learn how and when to engage in sensitive conversations about these difficult but necessary topics. Our goal is to give every team member the skills, knowledge, and confidence to respond with care and compassion.
This summer, we’re also introducing Shelter Safe, a new educational course designed specifically for teens in the shelter. The course addresses real-life challenges like peer pressure, substance use, and making safe, healthy decisions. It aims to help teens develop coping strategies, build confidence, and gain a deeper understanding of their personal and social realities.
Of course, summer at the shelter is filled with lots of fun. We’ll kick things off with an End-of-School Bash to celebrate the kids’ resilience and school success. The fun continues with water days, tie-dye crafts, sports events, pizza parties, and outdoor movie nights. We’ll wrap up the season with a joyful End-of-Summer Party to celebrate growth, connection, and the strength of our community.
Summer is a time to learn, play, heal, and create lasting memories. It’s a season of joy, confidence-building, and laying the foundation for long-term well-being and stability. And, of course, we are led by our mantra: kids deserve to play!
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