The Downtown Services and Drop‑in is a street-front program of YSB. Located in Ottawa’s downtown core (147 Besserer Street), the centre provides a safe place for youth aged 16 to 20 who are unstably housed, live in poverty, or are living on the streets. Here, youth connect with peers facing similar challenges in an environment of acceptance and respect. Working with counsellors, youth identify their needs, set goals and get connected to the support and services they need to achieve those goals.
For some, this means filling basic needs—free access to telephones and the internet, showers, a food bank, clothing, laundry facilities, and a healthy meal. For others, the Drop-in is a lifeline to housing, crisis counselling, addictions treatment, health care and support on the journey to independence.
The Drop-in is open from Monday to Friday from 12 – 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 1 – 6 p.m.
Youth are encouraged to drop in or call 613-241-7788 ext. 300.
The Drop-in programming includes:
- Aftercare access – Ages 21-24 who have been registered for services before turning 21 can access the space.
- Spectrum LGBTQ Drop-in – starting June 14, 2023 and takes place each Wednesday from 4:15 PM-6 PM.
- Ontario Works – every Thursday from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m to complete intakes, answer questions, and provide emergency benefits.
- ODSP Liaison – on the third Wednesday of every month from 12:00 noon -3:30 p.m. to help service users obtain ODSP.
- The Royal – mental health services every Monday from 12 (noon) – 2:00 p.m.
Location: 147 Besserer Street
Contact: 613-241-7788 ext. 300 or 400
soneil@ysb.ca
Health Services
Street-involved youth have complex health needs, but without identification or a health card, getting help can be difficult. The Drop-in health clinic provides youth with easy access to free primary health care services, such as medical, dental and sexual health clinics. Youth can meet with a nurse practitioner and be treated for most minor injuries, ailments or health concerns, or be referred to other medical professionals. Preventative dental services, such as teeth cleanings, are also offered free of charge.
Health Clinic
No appointments or health card necessary.
Clinics: Monday to Friday from 12:30 – 4:30 p.m.; Closed Thursdays
Nurse Practitioner with Sandy Hill Cmty Health Centre: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays
Preventative Dental Care with Algonquin College: Fridays
Phone: 613-241-7788, ext 222
Text: 613-808-4454
The Downtown Drop-In
