GUELPH – The Grove Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario (YWHO) – Wellington Guelph has released its Fall 2024 Impact Update, revealing a remarkable increase in youth accessing services.
The report highlights that youth seeking support at the Grove has doubled, with wellness and clinic programming rising 88 per cent this year.
This growth means that the Grove has continuously played a critical role in addressing the escalating mental health needs of youth, officials say.
The report notes that recent data released from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) highlighted that almost every indicator of health and well-being for youth has worsened, with self-esteem issues, self-harm and suicidal ideation all on the rise.
The data shows that 90% of youth have moderate to severe stress, 50% report substance use and 50% report self-harm.
However, The Grove’s approach of offering low-barrier, youth-designed services, is showing clear positive outcomes, officials say.
Youth who spend more time at the Grove experience significant reductions in anxiety, depression and stress, they added.
“Every day, we see more youth walking through our doors, seeking connections, support and a safe space,” stated Jeff Hoffman, executive director of the Grove Youth Wellness Hubs.
“Our programs, designed by youth for youth, are meeting an urgent need in the community. The increasing number of young people coming to us for help is a testament to the impact we are making.”
As part of its ongoing mission to expand and enhance care, the Grove has launched several pop-up hubs in underserved rural communities including Rockwood, Palmerston, Erin and Fergus.
These new “sub-hubs” are designed to bring services directly to youth, eliminating barriers to access, such as transportation, that many rural youths face.
Looking ahead, the Grove will expand its services, with a new location opening in YMCA Three Rivers Guelph in 2025, as well as maintaining its commitment to enhancing the delivery of care through partnerships and donor support.
“Together with the community, compassionate and amazing support, the Grove YWHO – Wellington Guelph is responding every single day to youth coming here to create connections, access support, and find a welcoming space,” stated Hoffman.
For more information about the Grove visit thegrovehubs.ca.
