Street Youth Outreach

Youth Homelessness

In Canada, there is an estimated 65,000 homeless youth. In Ottawa, the figure is between 4-500 in any given year. OIM has been ministering to youth since its inception in 1988 and continues to develop innovative services and programs. 

OIM’s Services & Programs for Youth

• Street Youth Outreach: 4 times weekly, OIM’s Youth Outreach Worker and trained volunteers make connections with street-engaged youth, providing immediate provisions, such as sandwiches, socks and toiletries, as well as counsel and referrals.
• “Passion 4 Youth” Fine Arts Program: The “Passion 4 Youth” art & music group meets on Thursday evenings from 6:00 – 9:00pm. The youth organize two shows annually (spring and fall) to showcase their talents to the community. The program also assists youth in setting personal life goals with an adult mentor.
• The Life Skills program is an individualized program for individuals who wish to prepare for future employment. Participants are trained to carry out tasks such as sorting donations, answering phones, cooking and food preparation for our Tuesday drop-in, and learn problem-solving and conflict-management in a supportive, encouraging environment.