NOVA

Our Goal

To offer youth experiencing homelessness a safe, supported living environment as they develop the skills to make positive lifestyle choices and live independent, productive lives in the community.

We Provide

NOVA offers all youth, ages 16 to 24, the time they need to properly work through issues that have derailed their lives and the unconditional acceptance and supports they need to move forward.

• Provides a 24/7 low-barrier housing solution to youth who may have been street involved, who may be struggling with drugs, alcohol, isolation and/or mental health issues.
• Operates primarily from the Harm Reduction and Housing First philosophies.
• Consists of 2 program models located at the same site in order to provide appropriate approaches to residents depending on where they are at in the change process.
• STAY (Successfully Transitioning All Youth) provides 17 beds to young people who are committed to making changes in their lives. Residents of STAY can reside at NOVA for up to 18 months and will work closely with their individual Case Workers to identify goals and overcome the barriers they may face.
• REST (Respect, Equality, Self-Care, Tools) offers 3 beds to young people who need a safe place to stay for a limited amount of time.  While in the REST program, young people are given the opportunity to have their basic needs met while they re-connect with resources.

Our Services

We offer a home and supports: recreation, life skills groups, and career or upgrading information. We create a non-judgemental atmosphere, where young people progress at the pace that suits them. Mental health and addictions supports are available onsite. Staff support and services are available to residents 24 hours a day, 365 days per year.

We expect each resident to enroll in educational upgrading, a personal development program or to find employment. Eventually youth will transition to safe, secure, sustainable housing.

NOVA does not charge a fee for service. Residents in STAY are expected to participate in an encouraged savings program, where any funds saved are returned to the resident upon transition from NOVA. NOVA is funded through Homeward Trust Edmonton.

Admissions

Residents of NOVA must be:

• Willing to enter the program voluntarily.
• Committed to developing goal plans to meet their individualized needs.
• Willing and able to work, attend school, or a day program.
• If currently unable to work, attend school, or day program the youth must be committed to working towards overcoming the barriers that prevent it.
• Willing to develop a plan to deal with any outstanding warrants.
• Willing to sign release of information forms.

Potential applicants will be asked to complete a short referral and a financial assessment to determine suitability. This will be done over the phone directly with the potential applicant. Youth may be placed on a triage list until a bed becomes available.

Referrals

Youth can self-refer any day at any time by contacting NOVA at 780.477.0104