Abbey Ridge

Abbey Ridge offers a supportive living program that fosters the development of life skills and independence for youth who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. Abbey Ridge strives to create an environment that is safe in every way.

What is it?

• Supportive and Cooperative Living
• A Safe Place to Live
• Voluntary

What is it not?

• A Shelter
• A Group Home
• Involuntary

The Supportive Living Program provides safe, supervised, and supportive transitional housing for youth who are between the ages of 16 and 24. The youth in the Supportive Living program are at high risk of negative life outcomes due to a lack of resources, support, and stability. The program aims to help youth overcome these barriers by assisting them in reaching personal goals through support, empowerment, and advocacy.

The program offers a supportive environment that fosters the development of life skills and independence. The program is overseen by the Manager of Abbey Ridge and is staffed 24/7 with two screened and trained Youth Workers. As a team the Manager and Youth Workers work collaboratively to develop and implement goal plans for each youth that includes wrap-around care and supportive counseling.

Plans will also include life skills programming that will provide learning opportunities and experiences for youth to build their competencies, confidence, and independence as they transition into adulthood.

Youth will be in the care of qualified, trained staff who offer positive role modeling and mentorship.

The purpose of this program is to prepare youth for adulthood and support them during their transition to independent living. We take a strengths-based approach to supporting youth to reach their own personal goals.

Eligibility Criteria

• Be between the ages of 16-24 experiencing homelessness, or in some cases, at risk of imminent homelessness, and capable of living independently.
• Qualify for income assistance or have income from employment and agree to pay $540 monthly rent which includes a fully furnished locked bedroom and private bathroom.
• Desire to live in a supportive living environment and agreeance to participate in life skills programming and work with the Manager and Youth Workers on a plan. Residents at Abbey Ridge are expected to follow a program that helps them grow into adulthood and independent living.

Referral Process

Referrals should be directed to Abbey Ridge’s Manager, Larissa Rodriguez. Referrals can be made via email at [email protected] or via phone at 902-322-9019.

To refer a youth, contact Larissa and provide the name, contact information, and any relevant information about the youth.

Prior to making a referral, please obtain consent
from the youth to make the referral. If possible, prior to making a referral, please share with them the information above about Abbey Ridge and gauge their interest in this kind of living environment.

Once a referral is received Larissa will reach out to the youth to complete the referral process. Adaptations can be made if the youth being referred requests a support person to be present.