Providing Youth with a Low-Barrier Housing Solution

Who it’s for:
Youth (aged 16-24) seeking to transition from houselessness to independent living, all genders 

Contact:
To apply, call 780.477.0104 or email us 

Referral:
Self-referral

Nova is a voluntary 20-bed supported living environment, that is FREE for youth ages 16-24 who are experiencing homelessness. Admission is by self-referral. 

Nova provides both a 24/7 Emergency Shelter and an 18-Month Transitional Housing Program to support youth on their path to independence.

Program Models to Serve Two Client Streams

The choice of model is based on where the individual is in their change process.

1. STAY (Successfully Transitioning All Youth)

  • 17 beds for young people who can reside at Nova for up to 18 months while they make progress to overcome barriers and achieve self-identified goals.

2. REST (Respect, Equality, Self-Care, Tools)

  • 3 beds available for young people needing a safe, temporary place to stay. Their basic needs are met as they reconnect with support and resources. 
  • Youth may access REST for up to 7 nights a month.

Program Goals

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. Our objective is to help youth transition to safe, secure, sustainable housing.

Available On-Site Services

Nova offers residents the time they need to properly work through issues that have derailed their lives – together with the unconditional acceptance and supports they need to move forward, including:

  • Daily living and social skills
  • Budgeting and financial information
  • Case planning, crisis planning and SMART goal development
  • Communication and advocacy skills
  • Conflict management
  • Client directed referrals
  • Staff support and services 24 hours a day, 365 days per year
  • Recreation opportunities
  • Life skill coaching and groups
  • Career and educational upgrading information
  • Referral and connection to natural and professional supports
  • Opportunities to participate in cultural traditions
  • A safe place to call home

Program Expectations

Individuals are expected to enroll in educational upgrading, a personal development program or to find employment. Those in STAY are expected to participate in an encouraged savings program, where any funds saved are returned to the resident upon transition from Nova.

Admissions Criteria

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.

94% of Nova residents participated in meaningful daily activities.

87% of youth reported increased connections to their professional and natural supports. (2024)

Apply to Live at Nova

Call 780.477.0104 or email Nova. 

Our Program Partners

Operated by enCompass. Funded by Homeward Trust.