Main Place Youth Centre -10 Thompson Cres, Erin, Ontario
For more information call 519-833-9696
How we started and where we are going.
It started as a vision- A place for local youth to hang out, play ping pong, shoot some hoops and have a snack… My how far we have come.
Thanks to Patrick Suessmuth’s very generous donation and vision and the Main Place Optimist Club, East Wellington Community Services took that vision and made it a reality.
Main Place Youth Centre officially opened its doors in the spring of 2021, although opening was originally scheduled for March 2020. The youth of Erin immediately embraced the opportunity to utilize the space, regularly dropping in with friends and participating in wellness programming and activities such as cooking and baking, guided painting, arts and trivia nights.
Welcome to The Grove
In 2019 EWCS was approached by The Grove ( formally Integrated Youth Services Network)about a partnership that would allow EWCS to expand our reach, to offer clinical services and be one of many sites. The vision; provide spaces that youth could access throughout the county and Guelph, for support with mental health and wellness, drop in and recreational activities. EWCS was already half way there so joining The Grove completely made sense.
Partners and site operators of The Grove include, EWCS, CMHA, YMCA, U of G, The Town of Minto and Shelldale Family Services, 7 sites, 1 door. Youth who access the sites for clinical supports can do so without having to retell their story, wellness and recreational programming are chosen by youth and drop in creates a safe space for youth to be themselves with their peers.
This partnership has provided access to funding that otherwise, we would not have had, its allowed MPYC to support the youth in this community who so desperately needed support and advocacy in their mental health journey and homelessness. Youth are given the opportunity to paint, bake, play sports and learn so many new skills with their friends at no cost, often affording opportunities they have never had.
Introducing The Grove Erin- Main Place Youth Centre
Without Patrick’s vision and donation, Main Place Optimist Club’s commitment and The Grove, youth in this community would still be without a safe space of their own, continuing to face the obstacles of navigating our challenging health system alone and unable to access wellness and skill based activities due to financial barriers. The Grove Erin- Main Place Youth Centre has only just begun to make an impact in this community, the possibilities are endless!
To learn more about The Grove Hubs click the link below