When Susan* first came to YSM she was living in a rooming house with many others, sleeping on the floor. Growing up in foster homes, Susan had experienced multiple traumas and received one consistent message: she wasn’t and would never be worth anything. Feeling alone and unvalued, Susan would arrive quietly at YSM, get her meal and leave silently. Slowly, however, she began meeting YSM staff and opening up. She was connected to a mental health counsellor and partnered with a mentor. Her sister also began coming to meals at Bridges and they were able to reconnect over bi-weekly dinners. It was through these community meals Susan soon met Doug*.

Susan had started taking life skills courses, participating in outings and joined a candle business. At one of those outings – Bridges’ summer camp, 2019 – Doug asked Susan to marry him! And, just a few months ago, their wedding was held at YSM’s Martin Centre, officiated by our pastoral staff with their rings and gift provided by generous donors.

Susan and Doug continue coming to YSM for take-away meals and socially-distanced visits with staff. They are happy, surrounded by community and are working together to find a new apartment amid preparations to start college.

Susan’s life has been transformed because donors like you have given generously to create the safe space where Susan was able to relearn her value, build solid relationships and gain the skills she needs to not only survive, but thrive.

Learn more about our Bridges programming for adults at ysm.ca/bridges

*Names changed to protect privacy