The Youth and Family Support Program (YFSP) aims to mitigate vulnerabilities, such as substance use health, violence, and human trafficking, that put youth and families at greater risk of criminal exploitation. The program emphasizes thriving families, preventing, and responding to trauma, and leveraging existing and new supports. It focuses on the social, community and familial systems that serve as the backbone of community resilience.

Through a coordinated, evidence-based approach and robust community partnerships, the program aims to create a safer and more resilient environment in Thunder Bay.

Mission

Central to this goal is an individualized and multi-generational approach; offering personalized, wraparound support to youth and their families. By addressing root causes through upstream prevention, the effort seeks to improve social and economic conditions for families. 

YFSP is committed to serving a diverse range of families and youth throughout the city. Referrals to the program will mainly come from system partners, including local police, schools, Place-Based Referral Partners, and various community organizations. The program will initially emphasize supporting youth aged 10 to 13, though may be adaptable depending on circumstance. This adaptability is rooted in the program’s focus on nurturing whole family structures.

Engagement with families and individuals is a cornerstone of the YFSP, with the understanding that each participant’s journey is unique. Priority will be given to those exhibiting risk factors at individual, family, and community levels, focusing on preventing criminal exploitation. The program will also include dedicated support for those who have experienced trauma, which can increase other areas of vulnerability.

Contact 

For information, please contact the Youth and Family Systems Program:

  • Location: Kinsmen Youth Centre, 609 James St. N, Thunder Bay, ON
  • Email: yfsp@thunderbay.ca
  • Phone: (807) 632-1005 

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