New Westminster youth centre faces closure as federal funding expires

A youth hub in New Westminster is set to close its doors if federal funding isn’t renewed.

A youth centre in New Westminster, B.C., could be forced to close its doors if new funding is not secured.

The New Westminster Youth Hub’s funding agreement with the federal government expired on Tuesday and has not been renewed.

As a result, the organization is now relying on donations and a GoFundMe campaign to remain open and continue supporting roughly 350 youth each week.

“We’re hoping we can keep it running at least for the month of April,” said Eric Osmond, youth program director for Purpose Society, which operates the hub.

Osmond explained the hub is funded through the Building Safer Communities Fund, administered by Public Safety Canada.

Since 2023, he says the program has provided hundreds of thousands of dollars annually, covering program costs, equipment, office supplies, staffing and food.

The Youth Hub has been in contact with all levels of government, but future funding has yet to be confirmed.

“For many young people, this is the only place they can walk into without a referral, get something to eat, and connect with consistent support,” said Osmond

“If the hub closes, there will be a real gap in services for vulnerable youth in New Westminster, especially for those who are not connected to formal systems.”

Public Safety Canada has yet to confirm whether it is considering extending the funding.

New Westminster Mayor Patrick Johnstone told CTV News the initial contract was for $1.8 million and expired Tuesday. He says he is working with partners, senior levels of government and other agencies to find a long-term solution.

“It’s kept a lot of kids out of trouble, and it’s given them support at a really difficult time,” said Johnstone.

“I think it’s a valuable resource for the community and something we’re committed to supporting. We just need to figure out a funding model.”

No timeline was given for when a potential funding model or additional funding would be provided.