Shelterlink FAQs
Q1: How many youth are in the shelter?
A: It depends on the time of year. Our shelter has 15 short-term emergency beds, so the maximum capacity is 15 youth with 1 per room. We typically see more youth staying with us during the colder months.
Q2: Who can stay at the shelter?
A: Emergency shelter is available for youth aged 16-24. Though we do not take youth aged 14 and 15 in the shelter, we do support them through our outreach programs, with a focus on prevention and early intervention.
Q3: Do you charge youth rent to stay at the shelter?
A: No, we do not charge rent.
Q4: How long can the youth stay at the shelter?
A: Shelterlink provides short-term emergency shelter. While the length of stay varies based on individual circumstances, youth are permitted to stay as long as they continue to engage with our program. Our team works closely with each youth to help them secure stable, long-term housing as soon as possible.
Q5: What do the rooms look like?
A: See below.
Q6: Do youth have to leave the shelter during the day?
A: No, Shelterlink is not a drop-in center where youth must leave during the day. Youth staying with us can access support services, meals, and a safe space throughout the day while they work towards finding permanent housing. We do have a curfew, which is at 10pm.
Q7: What are Shelterlink’s hours?
A: We operate 24/7, ensuring youth always have a safe space to stay. Our workers are always available to offer shelter support and phone support to youth, no matter the time of day or night.
Q8: What facilities are available in the shelter?
A: We offer 15-short term emergency beds, each in an individual room for privacy and comfort, as well as meals, clothing, personal care items, showers, and laundry facilities. We also have common areas for the youth to relax and connect, and on-site staff available 24/7 for guidance and crisis support.
Q9: How long has Shelterlink been in Stratford?
A: Shelterlink has been a part of the Stratford community since 1991. Over the years, we’ve had different names, operated in various locations, and adapted our approach to better serve youth. As the needs of young people experiencing homelessness evolve, so do we! We always strive to provide the best support possible.
Q10: What can I donate to Shelterlink?
A: Financial donations are the most impactful way to support our work. They allow us to fund the staff who provide 24/7 support for youth, cover essential operational costs like rent and utilities, sustain our youth programs, and more.
In-kind donations are also welcome, and we recommend checking our wishlist to see which items we are currently accepting and which we are not currently accepting.