We offer a variety of programs and support services such as employment and education that result in significant change in the lives of our youth. Through our various programs and services, we provide homeless and at-risk youth with the resources they need to thrive in the community. Our morning drop-in is open to anyone between the ages of 16-25 and provides access to breakfast, various types of c
ounseling and emergency services, clothing and hygiene products, and computer and phone services. The employment programs (Career Works, Jobs First, and Youth Employment Works) are designed for youth aged 16-29. Their primary focus is to is to assist participants in preparing, finding and retaining employment in the community. The staff assist in the provision of the development of new skills, undertaking certifications and workshops and providing supports to both participants and employers in the workplace. The FoodWorks social enterprise aims to engage at-risk youth in Ottawa in the development of culinary skills. Our customers benefit from a chef-prepared high-quality from-scratch meal while our youth gain experience and knowledge that they can carry forward in their future employment. FoodWorks offers both catering and takeaway meal options from our store at 571 Gladstone. The BottleWorks social enterprise employs up to three youth per twelve week rotation and is a bottle pick-up and recycling service for residential pickup as well as restaurants and bars around Ottawa. The John Bosco Achievement Centre is the only in-house education program that provides a transitional educational model designed to engage street involved youth in academic studies outside of the traditional classroom setting. Students are able to earn high school credits and diplomas, write and study for their G.E.D., and find assistance in applying for college or university. The John Bosco Achievement Centre runs Monday to Friday from 9am to 3pm. The Housing Base Case Management (HBCM) program adopts both housing first and harm reduction approaches to assist clients with obtaining and maintaining long term, stable and affordable housing. The main principle of Housing First is just that, housing comes first and there are no preconditions such as employment, sobriety and mental health stability required for youth to have achieved before being supported in obtaining housing. The HBCM team provides housing support for up to two years for youth matched to them through the City of Ottawa’s Priority and Matching process. Operation Come Home runs the only national reunite program that reunites runaway youth with their families. We travel youth from all across Canada to any Canadian destination. If you are looking to return home, or would like more information on our reunite program, please call us toll-free at 1-800-668-4663.
