The BE YOUth teen drop-in centre will cease operations this November after 27 years of service.--NEWS PHOTO BRENDAN MILLER
news@medicinehatnews.com
Following 27 years of service the BE YOUth teen drop-in centre will be ceasing operations on Nov. 15, according to a statement released by the organization Thursday.
The drop-in centre is run by a local charity, the Medicine Hat Youth Action Society, which is ending its service citing “unfortunate circumstances.”
“We were fortunate to stay open for nearly three decades thanks to the resilience of our staff, volunteers and community in both the past and present,” states the release. “Unfortunately, due to unfortunate circumstances, we’ve concluded that the centre can no longer continue operating.”
The centre has provided teens a place to connect with other teens and develop friendships and spend time together through activities and programs.
“The decision wasn’t made lightly, but it’s necessary to ensure the continued support of our youth. We want to thank each and everyone of you. The impact we have made wouldn’t be possible without you.”
The YMCA will work to create services that will result in the closure of the drop-in centre, and will start offering those services at the beginning of November.
“They will provide youth programming in their South Ridge space,” states the release. “We encourage youth to make use of this space as they transition into this new chapter.”
Starting Nov. 2, the YMCA South Ridge space will be open Monday to Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. and between 4-7 p.m on Thursdays, as well as continuing its Friday teen night programming.
“If you have any questions on how you can support the youth during this transition, please don’t hesitate to reach out (beyouth1997@gmail.com or 403-528-8068.) Thank you for being part of our story, we are grateful to have been part of yours and look forward to seeing the new stories our youth build in the future.”
