Kencrest Opens its Doors to Youth and Families
Kencrest Housing Initiative: Empowering Youth for Long-Term Success
The Kencrest Housing Initiative is a transformative, collaborative program of Phoenix Youth Programs and Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia (AHANS) made possible through support from Reaching Home - Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada and the Government of Nova Scotia through the Department of Growth and Development and the Department of Opportunities and Social Development, with assistance from the Community Housing Growth Fund - Community Housing Transformation Centre. Kencrest provides transitional housing and support for youth aged 16 to 24, and young families who are experiencing significant housing insecurity. This vital program aims not only to stabilize the living situations of youth but also to offer them the necessary resources, guidance, and skills to prepare for successful independent living in the private rental market.
A Bright Future for Youth and Young Families
Located in North End Halifax, the initiative has secured two residential buildings with six fully furnished, 2-bedroom units in each, conveniently situated along a bus route. One unit is designated for a tenant support worker, ensuring ongoing guidance and support for all residents.
The property is co-owned by the Affordable Housing Association of NS (AHANS) and Phoenix Youth Programs. Operationally, AHANS delivers facility management and Phoenix provides supports and services to tenants. The Province of Nova Scotia provides funding support to make this supportive, rent geared to income housing model possible.
Through the Scattered Site Housing model, youth are paired with compatible roommates to foster a cooperative and supportive environment. This shared living model helps to reduce housing costs while providing a strong foundation for developing key life skills. It enables youth to pool resources and responsibilities, setting the stage for independent living once they transition out of the program.
Comprehensive Support for Personal and Professional Growth
This initiative is more than just providing a roof, it’s about empowering youth to thrive. Each resident will receive wrap-around supports, including a dedicated Housing Support Coordinator who works closely with them to set and achieve both personal and housing-related goals. We offer on-site tenant support, weekly check-ins with Housing Support Coordination, and collaboration with Phoenix's Education and Employment Centre.
Youth will also have access to Phoenix Youth and Family Therapy and Phoenix’s Mental Health Clinician, ensuring that they receive the necessary emotional and psychological support. These comprehensive services provide a holistic approach to fostering stability and success.
The program is designed to provide tailored guidance for youth pursuing employment or education. Youth will have the resources and support needed to build essential skills such as budgeting, communication, conflict resolution, and home maintenance, preparing them for their future in the private rental market and beyond.
The initiative supports youth pursuing post-secondary education by removing housing barriers, allowing them to focus on their academic and career goals without the stress of unstable living conditions. With a safe and affordable place to call home, youth can concentrate on excelling in their studies and securing long-term employment.
A Pathway to Stability and Self-Sufficiency
The Kencrest Housing Initiative prepares youth and young families for long-term stability. By offering affordable housing through a rent geared to income model, youth can save for their future and work toward independence. The program not only helps residents secure housing but also positions them for success in the competitive housing and job markets.
As part of the program, youth are equipped with the skills necessary to navigate the private rental market, ensuring a smooth and successful transition to independent living. The focus on employment readiness and post-secondary education plays a key role in breaking the cycle of poverty and creating lasting positive change in their lives.
AHANS and Phoenix wish to thank Headway Construction, The Brick, and IKEA for their contributions to making Kencrest into dignified homes for youth and young families.
Quotes:
“We are so thrilled that with the incredible support of the Province of Nova Scotia and in partnership with AHANS, that the Kencrest Apartments open their doors. What awaits is dignified, affordable housing for up to 22 youth who were previously in dire housing need. Phoenix staff will work alongside youth, providing wraparound services based on the goals of each person. Kencrest is a prime example of how owners, governments and non-profit agencies can team up to increase community housing stock for real and lasting change that is beyond measure. These collaborations generate hope and the promise of brighter futures.”
— Timothy Crooks, Executive Director, Phoenix Youth Programs
“Housing is the solution to homelessness, and more broadly, the ongoing housing crisis. We are grateful for the ongoing support of the Province of Nova Scotia in our mission to secure a meaningful portfolio of non-profit, affordable housing that offers alternatives to the private market. Our partnership with Phoenix Youth Programs builds upon the various supportive housing projects AHANS has delivered and will leverage strengths in both our organizations to provide a best-practice experience for our shared clients. Kencrest is just another example of how the non-profit sector can provide people-focused housing solutions where Nova Scotians can thrive.”
— Michael Kabalen, Executive Director, Affordable Housing Association of Nova Scotia
