Get Help

If you are in need of help, please call YES at 705-748-3851 any time. We are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The YES emergency shelter facility at 196 Brock St. offers temporary shelter to youth 16-24 and to families (any adult with custody of a child). The shelter has a total of 30 beds, 15 of which are in a separated section for family groups. The shelter is open and staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.

The length of stay at the shelter varies, but in general, clients are supported to find permanent housing as quickly as possible; our goal is to help clients exit the shelter within 6 weeks. During the day, residents are asked to look for housing and attend school or go to work. Shelter staff provide assistance and advice with this, and help residents get in touch with other organizations and services that work with youth and families. YES employees also participate in case management of individual shelter residents, working in partnership with other community organizations.

Before calling or emailing YES, have a look at these frequently asked questions to see if your answer is here.

FAQ for Individuals Looking for Emergency Housing

If you are in need of help, please call YES at 705-748-3851 any time. We are open 24 hours a day.

Who can stay at YES’ emergency shelter?

YES serves youth aged 16-24 and families. A family is any person(s) with legal custody and guardianship of a child/children.

Do I need to make an appointment to get a bed at the emergency shelter?

YES does not reserve beds in the emergency shelter, but staff will work hard to find an option for you.

The emergency shelter is staffed 24 hours a day and any worker will assist you any time. It’s always best to call ahead to ensure there is a bed available to you and to find out when the best time would be to arrive.

How long can I stay at YES’ shelter?

The emergency shelter is not long-term housing, it’s an emergency service to keep people safe during their housing crisis. Generally, residents are expected to find housing within 6 weeks, our staff will help you with this. We work with residents to find appropriate housing and overcome any barriers to getting housing. YES also has housing programs, and can help you get connected to YES’ housing options where it makes sense to do so. However, we understand that the rental market in Peterborough can be challenging, so longer stays can be negotiated.

Is it safe?

YES has staff members on duty 24-hours-a-day, with security cameras and procedures in place to manage resident activities and emergency situations. If you are a woman fearing or experiencing violence in your intimate relationship, the YWCA’s Crossroads Shelter is better able to support you.

Do I get a room to myself or must I share?

Most rooms in the emergency shelter are shared rooms, and we have very few individual rooms.

Do I get food?

Definitely!

Breakfast is served continental style, with bread, buns, juice, fruit, and cereals available. A bag lunch is provided to all residents who sign up for one – a hot lunch is sometimes provided during the cold months when staff or volunteers are available to make it. Supper is served every night at 6pm. The shelter follows the Canada Food Guide recommendations for healthy eating.

Do I have to be out during the day?

All residents are expected to look for a more permanent place to live. Most residents also go to school, attend agency appointments, and/or search for employment. If these tasks are being pursued you do not have to leave the shelter during the day. However, case managers will hold you accountable. The shelter is open 24/7, and as long as permanent housing is being sought, clients can be in the building during the day.

What do I have to do while a resident at the emergency shelter?

All residents must follow some basic rules and live up to certain expectations while at the shelter. These include being respectful to others, completing chores, keeping their room clean, and looking for housing. If another agency has determined you have other responsibilities – for example, attending school or performing community service hours – then we can assist you with that.

Do I get any money when I’m in the shelter?

Shelter residents who currently receive an income through Ontario Works (OW) or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), will continue to receive the Basic Needs portion of their funds while residing at the shelter. New residents who are not clients of either OW or ODSP will be assisted to register for financial assistance.

Do I have to go to school?

In Ontario, all persons must attend school to the age of 18. We have assisted hundreds of young people to earn Ontario secondary school credits through the Carriage House alternative classroom. This classroom is on the same property as the shelter, making it very easy for youth to pursue their education while staying.

What if I work?

YES’ emergency shelter is free, but you will have to save all your pay for rent, utilities, etc. If you need extensions to our curfew to go to work, shelter staff will negotiate new curfew times with you as long as you provide a schedule from your employer.

What are my responsibilities as a parent at the shelter?

Along with all the regular responsibilities, family clients jointly clean the shared bathroom and open areas in the family section where there are toys and books. Families in the emergency shelter must look after their children at all times, or arrange for appropriate care outside the shelter. YES does not have staff available to do childcare. Children may not be left with other residents.