Beacon - 4th year university thesis project
In Canada alone, over 3.2 million youths ages 12-19 are at risk for developing depression, and 33% of youths are living in poverty. The main issues identified for low-income youth facing mental health issues are absence of care options beyond day programs and counselling. There are few existing, youth specific, designated facilities in BC and their overall lack of access to free mental health services is a significant barrier for youth seeking support.
Beacon not only aims to address these issues, but also provide youth with the following services to aid in their journey through mental health challenges: overnight care and supervision; counselling and psychiatric services; professional and peer tutoring services; as well as providing a safe space for the community.
By aiding in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and the low-income demographic and by bringing the community together to address these serious issues, Beacon will provide a safe community gathering place, ease the transition from hospitalization to home, address the root causes of mental health issues in youth, and provide a space that the low-income demographic feels comfortable and welcome.
