The walls of the YES Shelter for Youth and Families may date back to 1838, but a fresh wave of upgrades is helping the historic building continue to serve Peterborough’s most vulnerable with dignity, safety, and care.
Thanks to an overwhelming response from the community and a significant grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough, the shelter has completed more than $266,000 in repairs and upgrades. From new washrooms and roof repairs to safety cameras, fencing, and even a $55,000 generator that kept the shelter running during the recent ice storm, the work has transformed the space inside and out.
Executive Director Aimee Le Lagadec says the building deserves to be treated with the same respect and care that they give to the people who stay there.
The improvements were sparked by a conversation between a Trent University student—who was staying at the shelter—and a staff member. Concerns about leaking washrooms led to a larger discussion about the state of the aging building, and soon after, a community fundraising campaign was launched. Hundreds of people responded.
The project, now complete, touches nearly every corner of the Brock Street facility, including renovations to the shelter washrooms, major piping repairs, new exterior paint, porch upgrades, and enhanced safety measures such as panic buttons and improved video monitoring.
Le Lagadec, who moved to Peterborough from Toronto three years ago, said she continues to be amazed by the generosity of the city.
The improvements not only make a difference for clients in crisis, says Le Lagadec, but for the staff supporting them.
Celebrating 25 years in operation, the YES Shelter remains a vital resource in the community, offering emergency shelter, transitional housing, an alternative classroom, a food and clothing cupboard, and an at-the-door snack program for those in need.
Thanks to these vital upgrades, and overwhelming community support, YES can continue providing young people and families with not just a roof over their heads, but a place that feels like someone cares.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
