About the Pilot Program
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Social Planning Cowichan has received funding to launch a proof-of-concept pilot program here, in the Cowichan Valley, to explore the potential for the Host Homes Cowichan program to effectively address and reduce homelessness among youth and young adults. The pilot program will match 6-8 youth (16-18) and/or young adults (19-26) who are aging
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out of care with a host home wherein they will be provided with a safe, healthy space to live and build life skills. The pilot program will run for six months time, with the goal of expanding the program's capacity, scope, and length to further address homelessness in the Cowichan Valley thereafter.
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Pilot Program Timeline
June |
Introductory meeting to receive feedback from community partners
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June/July |
Program design will be finalized for approval from our community partners
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August |
Recruitment and screening of host families; fundraising and advertising to commence
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August/September |
Youth referrals/applications will begin to be accepted
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September/October |
Matching process takes place
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October |
Orientation/training for both youth/young adults and hosts; match begins
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March |
Pilot program concludes; program reassessed for viability and future implementation
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Program Goals
- To assist youth and young adults aging out of care with supportive transition housing by matching them with a family that shares their interests, is caring and compassionate about their health and well being, and can help them achieve their goals toward successful independent living.
- To provide an opportunity for caring community members—in the midst of a housing crisis—to support others with stable housing.
- To connect youth and young adults with a variety of community services that may help them on their path to independent living.
- To expand beyond a pilot program, supporting a range of people from different backgrounds, circumstances, and demographics.
