Studies show that youth text an average of 3,000 times a month and always have their mobile phones on them. In line with this research, LOFT Community Services field staff now use mobile technology to support and be better linked with transitional-aged youth with mental health and/or addiction issues in the downtown Toronto area. About three years ago, LOFT Community Services decided to re-organize their youth programs to better serve transitional-age youth (16-25 years old) with mental health and addiction issues. This shift required research and networking, a change in its programming, and a focus on recruiting service providers who have the competencies needed to work with youth in transition. This new program started with one community support worker serving 25 clients, and now has 9 community support workers. LFT serves 212 youth in total – 112 youth in the community and 100 in residence per year.
In our latest issue of Promising Practices, EENet profiles LOFT Community Services. Promising Practices profiles innovative practices and initiatives from around Ontario.
You can read Promising Practices on the EENet website.