For many, summer means freedom: no classes, no homework, no early alarms.
But for too many youth in the Cowichan Valley, the end of school marks the beginning of a silent struggle.

 

When school doors close, so do vital support systems — safe spaces, daily structure, access to mental health services, and even reliable meals. Add to that the longest transit strike in BC history, and suddenly, our youth are cut off from everything they need to thrive.

 

Isolation. Anxiety. Depression. Hunger.
These are the harsh realities for many teens in our community during the summer months. Without school, many youth are left:

• Alone with difficult thoughts and emotions

• Without transportation to work, appointments, or food resources

Disconnected from the support of caring adults

We're Meeting Youth Where They Are – Literally.

This summer, Cowichan Valley Youth Services (CVYS) is hitting the road — driving 6,000 kilometers to provide lifesaving mental health and outreach services to youth across the region.

 

Our team will connect with nearly 200 youth, offering around 800 one-on-one sessions, with half of those happening through outreach. These aren’t just counselling sessions — they’re lifelines.

 

“Many of our clients schedule other important appointments around their time with us - like picking up prescriptions, going to the doctor, or taking their driver’s test.”

 

— April, Youth Support Worker

 

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