The Chilliwack Youth Health Centre (CYHC) has re-opened the doors for one its locations, and celebrated with an intimate re-welcoming this week.
Board members and counsellors gathered Tuesday morning for a first look and tour of the newly rebuilt Ch'íyáqtel administration building (Tzeachten), at 100-45855 Promontory Rd.
The warm and welcoming space is located near several schools and the University of the Fraser Valley, making it easier for youth to access the counselling and medical services provided by CYHC. The location is connected to similar offerings at the Neighbourhood Learning Centre at Chilliwack Secondary, and the Stó:lō Wellness Centre on Vedder Road.
The CYHC is open to youth ages 12 to 26, and there is no need for a referral or to book an appointment.
Ch'íyáqtel Chief Derek Epp, who also serves as a vice-president of the CYHC board, said the centre is open to all youth, whether they identify as Indigenous or not. And he underlined the 'unique' way that CYHC is able to operate across agencies, instead of working separately.
"It's about how we can work together in partnerships and break down barriers and provide access," he said.
"We're looking forward to all the youth that we can help, and make a difference in their lives... it's challenging times."
Dr. Rob Lees and Dan Bibby were also on hand, and both have been a part of the CYHC since its infancy about 11 years ago, and watched it grow. They've also seen the difference the centre has made locally, by filling gaps in health care.
For Lees, partnerships like the one with Ch'íyáqtel are also an example of reconciliation.
"Something I was learning from Derek was that reconciliation is a two-way process and that from Derek's point of view, making this space available is part of the outreach of the Indigenous community to the settler community," he said.
The CYHC provided 4,000 medical and counselling sessions last year, and helped about 300 youth who identify as Indigenous.
To learn more about the services provided at any of the three CYHC locations across Chilliwack,visit chilliwackyhc.com.
