Union House Mandate
Union House provides a supportive living environment for transitional aged youth from the Haldimand and Norfolk area. Our goal is to support youth, as they become independent, contributing members of the community.

Description of Program/Service
The Union House program offers a safe and nurturing environment, along with life skills training and supportive counselling, for youth in their time of need. The program's objective is to assist these youth in developing the skills necessary for independent living or a return to the family home, and successful integration into the work force.

Union House offers an innovative, strength-based program that is designed to meet the evolving needs of individual youth in our community. Youth residing in the Union House program receive services including individual program planning, supportive counselling, and individual and group life skills training, while continuing their education.

Residents of Union House are assigned a Youth Support Worker. With the assistance of their Youth Support Worker, the residents identify their desired personal outcomes, based on their strengths and needs. Desired outcomes can include but are not limited to, educational achievement, employment preparation, time management, money management, menu planning and grocery shopping, household management, social skills, conflict resolution, and the appropriate use of leisure time. Once established, all program staff will then work alongside residents as they develop their skills and will inspire the youth to grow towards their potential. Desired outcomes and the steps identified to achieve them will be summarized in residents' Plan of Care reports and progress will be reviewed with the youth on a regular basis.

The general length of stay at Union House is one year. However, given the voluntary nature of the program and the individuality of youth and their desired outcomes, residents can leave at any time or, depending on individual needs, may be eligible to request an extension of residency beyond a year. Residents and their Youth Support Worker will review discharge planning and preparation during their Plan of Care reviews.

Is there a cost for this service?
Room and board is applied according to income, in order to help cover food and operational costs. Financial assistance through Ontario Works may be available and will be determined on an individual basis. Youth Support Workers will assist youth in applying for funding as necessary.

Am I eligible?
Union House is a voluntary program for males and females, ages 16 to 21, who:

• Are enrolled full-time in school or a vocational skills training program
• Are in need of a stable place to live
• Would benefit from assistance with life skills and/or interpersonal skill development
• Are at risk of long-term dependency on public assistance
• Are committed to participating in the Residence Program

Referral sources for the Union House program include but are not limited to family, friends, educators, health care providers, police, Probation and Parole, Children's Aid, other REACH programs, and other local service providers. Youth interested in Union House may also contact the program directly.

How do I find out more about this service?
Individuals may contact Union House directly at 519-426-7604.

Tours of the house and information regarding the Program are available and can be offered during evening and weekend hours.

Links
Union House Urgent Care Bed Program