Cyrus Centre
CYRUS CENTRE YOUTH MISSION
Abbotsford's Cyrus Centre was created as a resource centre for at risk youth , responding to the adverse diversity of identified youth between 12 and 18 whose lives were already fractured.
Basic living and resources we take for granted, some had to degrade themselves for. Victims of sexual exploitation or addictions some had become homeless to escape unsafe family environments, some were runaways, some simply abandoned. Increasingly, the Centre sees youth from the widening, stigmatizing strata of poverty. They have homes but little food in the cupboards within them.
Mandated to welcome all, the Centre shows no prejudices of gender, race and culture. Youth representing many different cultures have been welcomed into the centre. Cyrus Centre staff and volunteers have spanned many ages and cultural fabrics as well.
Youth have access to food, shelter, clothing, shower and laundry facilities, access to telephones, computers, employment coaching and emergency dental care. Over 8,000 meals are served each year.
From the central location at 2616 Ware Street, Cyrus Centre is open 365 days of the year. The Resource Centre is open from Noon to 8pm and the emergency youth shelter operates from 8pm to 8am M-F & 8pm – 12 noon on weekends.
Further outreach capabilities include advocacy, counseling, mediation and referral to other agencies coordinating temporary or permanent housing. Staff attends youth court in an outreach support capacity, helping youth navigate the legal system. A prime goal is to see families restored, so support extends beyond youth and embraces their families as well, working towards a healthy re-unification and exiting street life.
Cyrus Centre is financially supported by charitable donations through the diverse support of area businesses, churches and individuals.
Reflecting a compassionate, supporting environment and offering up equally of hands and hearts, Cyrus Centre guides these young citizens of tomorrow into stabilized, sustainable futures and hope filled destinies.
