Walk-in youth services sites open in Halifax and Sydney
Posted Sep 9, 2025 12:31:16 PM.
Last Updated Sep 9, 2025 01:07:22 PM.
The provincial government says two new integrated youth services sites will offer better access to mental health and social services supports.
The Anchor Youth Space Halifax, located at 2269 Gottingen St., will offer walk-in support for people aged 12 to 25, including counselling, peer support, mental health and wellness. It will also help with things like employment.
Another new site opened in Sydney, with a total of eight sites planned across the province at a price tag of $8.4 million. The IWK Foundation is also aiming to raise $10 million for the projects.
“This is an exciting day. Youth in Halifax and Sydney now have more access to safe spaces where they can get the help and support they need,” said Brian Comer, Minister of Addictions and Mental Health. “It’s important that young people and their families have a comfortable place to access services. These sites are run by people who care about their communities and who offer support without judgment.
The Halifax site is led by the local YMCA.
“The strength of Anchor Youth Space Halifax lies in integration: provincial funding ensures sustainability, the IWK provides clinical excellence, and our coalition partners bring the trust, connection and community delivery that make it possible,” said Brian Posavad, President and CEO, YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth. “The YMCA has a long and proud history of youth development in Nova Scotia, especially in Halifax’s north end, and we are committed to helping youth access deeper supports without barriers and reaching potential together.”
Five more integrated sites, including a second in the Halifax area, are expected to open by 2027.
“Improving access and removing barriers to these supports and services is one more way we’re strengthening universal access to mental healthcare for all Nova Scotians,” Comer said in a press conference.
This comes as the province opened the first of the sites in April, including in Cumberland County.
