The Door seeks partnership with Clearview Township
Representatives of The Door Youth Centre Outreach made a presentation to Clearview Township council Feb. 9, asking for help to find a permanent home in Stayner.
The Door’s treasurer, Brenda Young, said the drop-in and outreach centre needs about 1,200 square feet of space with two bathrooms, one of which must be fully accessible. It also needs a source of ongoing funding.
The organization is looking for partnership opportunities with the municipality, in any form possible.
Young said the centre is under the umbrella of Highlands Youth for Christ, a Christian organization, and is not allowed to accept provincial or federal grant money because it is raised through the sale of alcohol and gambling proceeds.
The Door, which has had 750 youth through its doors since opening in 2009, needs about $66,000 in funding per year to cover rent, programming costs and the director’s salary.
The Door had to move from its permanent location last year to a meeting room at a Stayner church.
Director Jen Gerrior, the only paid employee at The Door, told council Monday about the impact the centre has had on the at-risk youth in the area and how it offers a safe place, like a second home.
“We’ve walked down many dark and winding roads with these kids,” she said.
Council didn’t make any promises but voiced support for The Door.
Councillor Thom Paterson said youth programming is something the township needs to think about.
Councillor Connie Leishman acknowledged the support of the last council, saying they were actively trying to find a location for The Door.
“I can’t see this [council] being any different,” she said.
Councillor Robert Walker urged people to get out and support the many fundraisers held by the organization.
“The youth are an important part of our community,” said Mayor Chris Vanderkruys.
To donate to The Door, visit clearviewdoor.wix.com/the-door.
Donations can also be made by sending cheques to The Door, Box 1502, Stayner, ON, L0M 1S0. Make cheques payable to Highlands Youth for Christ and on the memo line indicate the donation is for Stayner.
