Residential and Community Programs and Services
For a child or youth with complex needs to access support services in London, a parent, guardian or case manager must call The Community Services Coordination Network (CSCN). Participation in the CSCN process is required for children and adults with developmental disabilities who are pursuing accommodation supports, and for children and adolescents seeking admission to a residential based treatment program.
The following are some programs and services offering both residential and community-based programs. If you are unclear about the CSCN process, or want more information about options for your child call or email CSCN or any of the programs below.
Western Area Youth Services (W.A.Y.S.)
714 York St., London, Ont. N5W 2S8
WAYS provides residential programs and community services to youths aged 14-21 and their families. Entry into each program is voluntary. Common issues for youths that WAYS works with include conflict with the law, abuse of drugs and alcohol, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, psychiatric illness, problems in school or with peers, and families who are currently unable to provide the necessary support for their child.
WAYS Residential Programs provide basic needs, a safe and supportive environment, structured day programs, the teaching of life skills, job training, counselling, and links to community resources.
WAYS Community Programs provide early intervention and short-term services to youth and their families. These services include: assistance with finding shelter, clothing, and food, access to crisis counselling, advocacy, and links to community resources. Groups such as Anger Management, Drug and Alcohol Relapse Prevention, Adoptee Support, and Young Father’s Support are offered.
Tel: 519-432-2209
Email: ways@info.london.on.ca
Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation - The Cornerstone
332 Richmond St., London, Ont. N6A 3C3
The Cornerstone provides 30 affordable apartments with on-site programs and employment for at-risk youth aged 16-25 years old. The Cornerstone provides a safe environment for at risk youth, while encouraging them to explore options, and supporting them to make positive choices. Their team is committed to working towards the elimination of youth homelessness.
Programming encompasses supportive housing, education, employment, family connections and interventions to address health concerns and/or addictions. The Cornerstone bridges the gap between youth and needed services in the community, by providing comprehensive resources, harm reduction, and serving as a connecting point for community partnerships.
Tel: 519-792-7794
Email: jbinder@cmhc.ca
Craigwood Youth Services
520 Hamilton Rd., London, N5Z 1S4
Craigwood provides both residential and community programs for youth aged 12-16 who are dealing with issues pertaining to emotional/mental health, drugs and alcohol, anger management, etc. Early intervention services and family counselling are also available.
Tel: 519-432-2623
Learning Disabilities Association
333 Horton St. East, Unit 101, London, Ont. N6B 1L5
LDA offers a resource centre and tutoring for children with learning disabilities. There is usually a waiting list for tutors. Costs include membership and tutoring fees. The membership fee must be paid; however, the tutoring fees can be waived.
Tel: 519-438-6213
Madame Vanier Children’s Services
871 Trafalgar St., London, Ont. N5Z 1E6
Vanier works with emotionally disturbed children and youth under 16 years old. Referrals are taken from parents, doctors, courts, CAS, etc.
Tel: 519-433-3103
LIFE*SPIN
866-A Dundas Street, London, ON, N5W 2Z7
We provide information and support for individuals surviving on low-incomes and support the empowerment and self-development of these individuals in their efforts to attain self-sufficiency. LIFE*SPIN provides front-line services for mediation, referrals for services, homelessness prevention programs, and public legal education resources.
Our children’s programs include: Pocket Sized Farm Summer Camp, March Seed Planting Party, Easter Egg Hunt, Just-4-Girls teen group, School Backpack day, and a Christmas Program. Check our our Programs Section for more information.
Child and Parent Resource Institute
600 Sanatorium Rd., London, Ont. N6H 3W7
CRI provides both live-in and live-out programs for children and youth (ages 0-18) with emotional, developmental, or behavioural challenges. There are no costs for programs, however, live-in programs are arranged through CSCN. Parents can self-refer, call Intake for an assessment for their child, and options for treatment. There is also a home visit program for children aged 2-12.
Tel: 519-858-2774