“His eyes lit up when he saw the donations,” says Emily Giguere.

The clinical planner with VCH-Vancouver’s Youth Substance Use and Prevention Services is referring to a client she recently accompanied to Youth Haven, a new low-barrier home for homeless youth. There, in the home’s kitchen, the youth was thrilled to see a generous supply of new clothing and shoes on offer.

“He was very excited about receiving a new jacket. He also took a pair of warm socks, a hoodie and a pair of shoes,” she says.

“It really struck me,” she adds, “when he said that he’d never had such nice shoes. To receive new clothes is something many homeless youth rarely experience, and it seemed to make him feel cared for and about.”

The new clothing was purchased with funding provided by the VGH Thrift Store. The store donated $2,500 towards the purchase of jackets, hats, socks, shoes, scarves, mittens, warm sweaters and bottoms for homeless youth served by VCH.

The VGH Thrift Store donated $2,500 towards the purchase of clothing and shoes for homeless youth.

“We at Youth Haven are so grateful for the generous donation that allowed us to purchase essential items for youth to stay warm and dry during this cold, rainy season,” says Kyrsten Boucher, clinical program manager, Directions Youth Services. “Providing warm socks and flannel pants to wear under clothes can bring many of our youth needed comfort. Having these essentials onsite allows us to provide a foundation of support to continue building trust and connection with our youth.”

The VGH Thrift Store’s funding of clothes for homeless youth is just one example of the many donations made in recent months. Total donations towards VCH-Vancouver acute and community services in 2017 topped $66,000.

VGH Thrift Store appreciates your support

Store donations benefitting VCH-Vancouver patients, clients and residents wouldn’t be possible without your support. The VGH Thrift Store welcomes your clothing, books and other household items for resale. Please drop off donations during store hours only.

Store hours: Mon – Sat 10 to 5 pm; Sun 1 to 5 pm

Address: 2535 E. Hastings St.

Phone: 604.876.3731

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