Dear Friends,

Do you remember your very first apartment? You were likely in your late teens, early twenties. Perhaps studying in university and ready to live off campus. Looking back, the apartment probably wasn’t anything fancy—just a small, two-bedroom with chipped linoleum countertops and closet doors that stuck.

But to you, that apartment was perfect. It was safe, close to campus, a grocery store, and the laundromat. You could cook your own meals, have friends over, and put up holiday decorations. You had everything you needed to focus on school, care for yourself, and build your independence.

And best of all, your rent was likely quite manageable. I remember that my first apartment twenty years ago was $600 per month for a two bedroom here in Halifax. I didn’t have to live with the constant stress of my rent requiring the majority of my income.

Today, things aren’t so straightforward for young people striving to build their futures.

I think of Riham—a bright young student who came to Phoenix feeling completely overwhelmed by the high cost of housing and the unknowns of living on her own.

“About two years ago, I felt trapped. I was living at home and moving out seemed impossible. My options were really limited. On top of realizing the degree I’d started wasn’t right for me, it was all starting to affect my mental health and self-confidence.

When I eventually left home, I ended up staying with my boyfriend’s family. I was grateful, but I knew it wasn’t a long-term solution, so I connected with Phoenix. As a full-time student, I didn’t know if I could afford my own place or if I even had the confidence to try. After moving into Phoenix Homes for Independence, I quickly realized that I did have the skills to live on my own. Taking that leap is something I’m really proud of.

Through my experience at Phoenix, I’ve learned that it’s okay to figure things out along the way and ask for help when I need it. I was able to get a family doctor through Phoenix Centre for Youth—Doctor Chowdhury is just amazing! I also got my First Aid Certification at Phoenix Learning & Employment Centre, and their staff helped me apply for a few jobs so I could earn a bit of money before starting my new degree this year.

I’m now studying chemistry at university, and I’m so, so happy. I recently moved into a one-bedroom Phoenix Scattered Site apartment. I feel so settled in my new place. It allows me to support myself during my undergrad and gives me hope as I start exploring options for a master’s degree. I think that’s something I’m very excited about—to see what else I can do and where I’ll go next.

I’ve learned a lot and I’ve been able to do so much, and Phoenix was a huge part of that. If sharing my story inspires others to support Phoenix— and helps more youth to get the support they need— I think it’s worth it.”

– Riham, Phoenix Youth

Your support empowers youth to take charge of their lives, their wellbeing, and pursue their goals.

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Nova Scotia remains one of Canada’s least affordable provinces for housing, with youth from diverse backgrounds—those from rural and marginalized communities, newcomer youth, and post-secondary students— disproportionately feeling the impact.

We’re seeing a surge in students seeking support. When campus housing closes for the summer or rent spikes beyond their reach, many arrive with nowhere else to turn.

Even with student loans, many youth—like Riham—work multiple jobs just to get by. They often have to choose between paying rent or buying groceries. This constant stress takes a serious toll on their confidence and mental health, at a time when they’re just starting out on their own.

At Phoenix, we take some of that weight off their shoulders. We offer youth safe, welcoming spaces to call home—places where they can breathe, heal, and grow. With stability and support, they can focus on school or work, build independence, and nurture their mental wellness and resilience.

In my role as Manager of Phoenix Homes for Independence, I have the joy of working with students studying everything from environmental science to dental hygiene to social services. Just like Riham, they’re smart, driven, and full of potential.

Witnessing these youth transform from feeling stuck and anxious to feeling confident and ready to take on the world is one of the most rewarding parts of my work at Phoenix.

Please give by December 31st—and double your impact.

Today’s young people are tomorrow’s parents, coworkers, and leaders.
By investing in them now, we are building healthier, more caring communities for all of us.