Rae Celebrates Funding for Shelterlink Youth Services

March 1, 2026

[Stratford, ON] –On Saturday, Matthew Rae, Member of Provincial Parliament for Perth-Wellington, joined Shelterlink Youth Services’ Coldest Night of the Year event to recognize Shelterlink’s $44,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) Seed grant from 2025.

“Shelterlink Youth Services has been a trusted and consistent support in our community for decades,” said MPP Rae. “This $44,000 investment will expand their Family Mapping Program, helping stabilize vulnerable youth and families and setting them on a path toward long-term housing security and independence.”

The year-long grant is supporting the launch of Shelterlink’s new Family Mapping Program, an innovative initiative designed to help youth who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness safely reconnect with extended family members and other trusted adults, strengthening support networks and improving long-term housing stability.

“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like Shelterlink Youth Services provide services that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure it remains at the heart of the community for decades to come.”

The project will give youth workers the tools, guidance, and mediation support they need to help youth rebuild relationships, prevent future homelessness, and create safe, sustainable pathways home whenever possible. Through the Family Mapping Program, Shelterlink staff will work one-on-one with youth to identify supportive connections, facilitate conversations with family members or caregivers, and provide conflict resolution, counseling referrals, and follow-up supports. The program focuses on prevention and early intervention, helping young people avoid the trauma and instability that can come with extended shelter stays or chronic homelessness.

“This funding allows us to reach youth earlier and focus on healing relationships, not just providing emergency beds,” said Cate Trudeau, Executive Director, Shelterlink Youth Services. “Family reconnection, when it’s safe and appropriate, is one of the strongest protective factors against youth homelessness. With OTF’s support, we can give young people and families the space and tools to build relationships rebuild trust and create lasting stability.”

Shelterlink Youth Services is the only youth shelter serving Perth County and provides emergency shelter, Housing First supports, prevention services, and post-shelter programs for young people aged 16–24. By combining immediate housing with long-term supports, Shelterlink helps youth move quickly toward independence, stability, and well-being. The organization works closely with community partners, schools, and families to ensure every young person has a safe place to call home.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.