#47 Kerr Street Mission Part 2 | Youth Development Programs and Family Services Programs

In Part 2 of our 3-part series, we continue our deep dive into Kerr Street Mission (KSM) and its transformative impact on the Oakville community. In this episode, we focus on the organization’s core programs, exploring how they address the unique needs of children, youth, families, and individuals in distress.  In this episode, we focus on Youth Development Programs and Family Services Programs

Youth Development Programs
KSM is passionate about helping youth become confident, capable adults. The Youth Development program provides a safe, stimulating environment where young people can engage in enriching activities, develop leadership skills, and connect with positive adult and peer mentors. By inspiring youth through opportunities and responsibilities, KSM equips them for success in school, relationships, work, and life.

Youth Connected: A welcoming space for students in grades 6 through high school to be encouraged, challenged, and supported by staff, volunteers, and peers.

Leaders in Training (LIT): High school students gain hands-on leadership experience by mentoring younger kids in the Kids' Clubs program, while receiving bi-weekly leadership training.

Student Co-op Program: Students gain valuable work experience at KSM, developing essential leadership and teamwork skills while making a difference in the community.

Summer Programs: Structured full-day programs for children and youth aged 5–17, designed to promote positive development through fun and educational activities.

Family Services Programs
KSM’s Family Services programs aim to provide immediate support and long-term stability for families struggling to make ends meet. Through compassionate care and practical support, KSM works to reduce financial burdens and empower families to achieve a better, more sustainable future.

KSM Financial Wellness: This program offers financial literacy workshops, tax clinics, and debt management support to help families improve their financial well-being.

Neighbour Care Network: A collaborative initiative that connects families in need with local churches and community resources to offer personalized care and support.

Kerr Street Market: Access to fresh, nutritious food to support the health and welfare of families in need.

Choose Fresh: A program designed to provide families with consistent access to healthy food, improving their overall well-being.

Community Delivery & Meals: KSM goes beyond traditional food bank services by delivering food to families in need and fostering community connections through shared meals.

Christmas Wonders and Beyond: Ensuring that families in need can celebrate the holiday season with dignity and joy.

Tune in as we hear from Gary O'Neill, Executive Director of KSM, as he shares how these programs, along with the rest of KSM’s initiatives, are making a real difference in the lives of those they serve in the Oakville community.

Credits:
Host: Lino A. Fera
Guest: Gary O'Neill, Executive Director of Kerr Street Mission Oakville
Production: Cribwolf Talks Team
Music by: Dr. Ian Bates