Many young people lose their housing because of challenges and conflicts they experience with their families. Therefore, any effective solution to youth homelessness must consider the important role that family relationships and community connections can play for youth. To prevent youth homelessness, the Family and Natural Supports (FNS) program was developed to help strengthen youths’ relationships with family and other meaningful adults in their lives.

HOST

HEIDI WALTER is a program design and training consultant at A Way Home Canada. Through her role, she has provided extensive hands-on coaching and training to community partners across Canada looking to establish FNS programs.

PANELISTS

JESSICA WARD is the Senior Manager of Housing Programs at 360°kids.

MELODY BREWER (Team Lead, CMHA Kelowna) is the team lead for Family and Peer Support programs at Foundry Kelowna.

JOCELYN ADAMO (Trellis) has over 15 years of experience working with families and young people experiencing of homelessness.