Prince George

At Foundry Prince George young people can find hope, help and support for their wellness needs
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Contact

location_on 1148 7th Ave.,
Prince George, BC
V2L 5G6
Directions directions
phone 236-423-1571 email foundry@bc.ymca.ca

Opening Hours

Monday - Friday 11:00am - 5:00pm
Closed on Stat Holidays Walk-in service; no appointment required

Access

All young people 12-24 with valid BC MSP cards can access Foundry services.

ATTENTION

As Foundry is a healthcare facility, medical masks are currently mandatory for all staff, volunteers, participants, and youth working at or visiting Foundry.

Land Acknowledgement

Foundry Prince George is a settler organization and is located on the unceded and traditional territory of the Dakelh Peoples, including the territory of the Lheidli T’enneh Nation who’s lands Prince George was built upon. We are grateful for the opportunity to live, play and learn as guests on their lands.

 Ts’uhoont’i whuzah’az .  We are happy you have come.

Important Centre Information

 

Service Canada, Service BC and MSDPR Outreach

Stay tuned as Foundry PG hosts Service Canada, Service BC Mobile Outreach, and MSDPR- Spring 2024

Help with ID, name changes, Employment Insurance applications, income assistance, Social Insurance Numbers, Guaranteed Income Supplements, My Service Canada and Service BC accounts, written drivers tests and more.

 

Nurse Availability

We are excited to welcome RN Lauren Matheson to the Foundry PG Team. Lauren will be offering walk-in primary care Monday to Friday, 11:00am to 5:00pm. 

 

Respiratory Virus Season

The safety, health and well-being of our young people and their families, staff and our community partners is our top priority.  We’ve taken a number of measures at Foundry centres to ensure we are aligned with BC Centre for Disease Control’s recommendations. A few of these measures include:

  • As per Provincial mandate, masks are required by all staff and visitors to a Foundry Centre.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) including masks, gloves, etc. is offered to those who need it
  • Hand sanitizer or alcohol-based hand rub being available throughout the centre
  • Thorough cleaning of all shared equipment and all other areas of centre cleaned daily

Who We Are

Foundry Prince George enables young people 12-24 to access mental health and substance use support, primary care, peer support and social services from a single place.

 

What Can I Expect at my First Foundry Prince George Visit?

The first time you come to Foundry we sit down with you, explain our service model and go over a consent for services form with you.  Your confidentiality is important to us, we protect client personal information that is shared with us and will only share information to keep you or someone else safe.  View our Consent for Services Form.

Next, we gather client information through our engagement form.  The information you share with us on the engagement form lets us learn more about you (your preferences, a little about your life).  It also tells us what you need and what ways we can support you. Feel free to download and fill out the Engagement Form at or prior to your visit to Foundry.

Once those two steps are complete, we are able to connect you with a member of the Foundry team to get started!

 

Foundry Prince George Available Services

All young people 12-24 years old can access Foundry services, even if they don’t know their health care/medical MSP #.

  • Mental Health
  • Substance Use
  • Primary Care
  • Peer Support
  • Social Services
  • Gender Affirming Care
  • Parent Peer Support
  • Family/ Caregiver Support
  • Groups
  • Housing
  • Employment and Education

What you can expect before accessing services at Foundry Prince George

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  • On your first visit to Foundry Prince George, we will support you to complete our onboarding paperwork, so that we can create a chart for you.
  • You’ll let us know what’s bringing you through the door, your preferred name and pronouns, how you’d like us to communicate with you, and who you give us permission to communicate with.
  • We’ll walk you through our limits to confidentiality, our services on offer, and answer any questions you have.
  • You’ll complete a Health and Demographic Survey on one of our iPads. It will take 20-30 minutes, and will give us a better picture of who you are, your resources, experiences, and needs. This will be the only time you complete a survey of this length, and it will allow us to ensure you don’t have to tell your story over and over. Some of the questions will be personal, and you are able to skip past any ones you aren’t comfortable with or aren’t ready to answer. If the survey as a whole is too much to tackle, that’s OK; not completing it won’t prevent you from being able to access services.

Our Counselling Model

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  • We believe you already have the skills and ability to create change in your life but you may need help identifying and developing those skills.
  • We focus on what works for you and how it can help you in the future instead of examining your past experiences.
  • Counselling is offered in a single instance, solution focused way.
  • We encourage you to see our team of counsellors as available to you. Each of them have skills and strengths that can support you in unique ways. Each are committed to the belief that you are the expert in yourself.

We respond directly to what you want to work on by focusing on what’s important to you, what you want at the end of the session and creating do-able goals with you.

At Foundry PG, our Counsellors all offer Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT). Individually, they may also use other therapeutic modalities, like Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Narrative Therapy.

What can you expect during a counselling session?

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  • To be asked to give us a heads up on what you want to talk about today, by completing a brief walk-in survey (2-5 minutes long) on one of our iPads when you first arrive.
  • For the counsellor to review confidentiality with you, explain the process to you, and help you clarify your needs, and the strengths and skills that you have to meet them.
  • For the counsellor to possibly take a quick break with their team, to brainstorm some ideas you could try to to use as you strive towards your goal.

For the session to end after you are offered the ideas/suggestions the team came up with,  along with any you came up with too.

When can you come for counselling at Foundry?

  • After your first visit at Foundry where we learn a bit more about what you need, if you decide our counselling model would be helpful to you, you can come to Foundry and request counselling Monday to Friday from 12:00PM-5:00PM *closed on Stat holidays, and during the week between Christmas and New Years Day.

Primary Health Care Services

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  • Primary care with physicians is offered on a walk-in, first-come first-serve bases and due to high demand can fill up very quickly. If you’d like to connect to a physician, please call or attend Foundry Prince George promptly at 11:00AM.
  • A physician is here Monday, Tuesday & Thursday from 2:30PM-5:00PM   
  • A Registered Nurse with certified practice is on daily from 11:00AM-5:00PM. Nurses can help with a number of things so feel free to visit during this time.  If the nurse can’t do everything you need, your information will be gathered and passed on to the doctor.
  • You may not be aware, but as a Registered Nurse with certified practice can help with:
    – Birth control information and distribution;
    – Safe Sex Practices: Information and free safe sex tools;
    – Sexually Transmitted Infection testing and treatment;
    – Pregnancy testing and counselling on options for you if your test is positive;
    – Flu Shots and other Immunizations;
    – Overdose Prevention Kits (Naloxone): She can teach you how to use it and send you home with one;
    – Dressing changes and wound care;

    – Harm reduction strategies and support

Gender Affirming Care

  • Gender affirming care is the delivery of equitable and accessible wholistic healthcare supporting trans people.

Mental Health and Substance Use Services

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  • Our walk-in counselling is available Monday to Friday, 12:00PM-5:00PM
  • The first time you meet with a Foundry Counsellor, they will explore what is challenging you, why you came in and what you need in order to get a clear understanding of how best to support you.  Remember that the more honest you are with us about what is happening and what you are thinking, the more we can help!
  • We want you to decide on your plan, we are here to simply provide you with options. Your plan may include checking out some great and reliable stuff online, returning for more counselling, or accessing more of our services at Foundry and/or connecting you with some of the other great services available to you in Prince George.
  • Our Nurse can support you with harm reduction strategies, Opioid Agonist Therapy, or referrals to other services in and out of our region.
  • Our Peer Supporters can provide you with non-judgmental social support, from a place of lived experience or understanding. They can help you seek out healthy activities and opportunities, provide compassionate listening, and help you meet other social determinants of health.

Family and Caregiver Support

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  • We agree with Family Smart (www.familysmart.ca); whether you’re a natural support or an assigned caregiver, young people do better when the adults who care about them are supported.
  • Parent Peer Supporters with lived experience loving, caring for, and supporting a young person on their journey as they improved their mental health are available at Foundry on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays. Call Foundry to get connected to our of our Parent Peer Supporters.
  • Family Involvement Support can help you navigate complex systems, help you grow your skills as your young persons’ emotion coach, offer compassionate listening, or help you understand the transformative power of attachment. Call Foundry to connect with our Family Involvement Worker.
  • Groups such as SMART Recovery Friends & Family, EFFT Caregiver Workshops, An Introduction to Emotion Coaching, and Circle of Security regularly offered by the Foundry Family and Caregiver Support Team.

Come in and see us about your needs. If we don’t have it yet, we will help discover options with you.

What's happening at Foundry Prince George

View our weekly calendars and keep up-to-date on Foundry groups and events.

Current Groups & Workshops

Craft Night for Parents and Caregivers

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Tammy Tetreau, FamilySmart Parent Peer Support Worker, in collaboration with Foundry Prince George & Van Bien Elementary School, are hosting a “Bring Your Own Craft Night”. Drop-in to join Tammy and other parents & caregivers for connection and support.

No craft? No problem. Tammy will have some options on hand.

Free of cost.

Childcare not available for this event.

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When:  Tuesdays, March 6th, April 3rd & 17th, May 1st & 15th, June 5th & 19th, 2024• 6:30p.m.-7:30p.m.

Where: Van Bien Elementary • 311 Wilson Cres, Room #122.

Prince George Bereavement Support Group for Traumatic Loss

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Supported by the BC Bereavement Helpline, Foundry, & the Crisis Centre for Northern BC for those who have lost loved ones to homicide, suicide, or substance use.

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When: Wednesdays • 5:30pm to 7:00pm | April 03rd – May 22nd, 2024

Where: Foundry Prince George • 1148 7th Avenue

Register: Contact pgbereavement@gmal.com 

 

Circle of Security Workshop

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This program is designed to enhance attachment security between a adult-carer and a child/ youth. Secure young people exhibit increased empathy, greater self-esteem, an increased capacity to handle emotions more effectively, and have better relationships later in life. Join us to explore how to:

  • Assist your child/youth in managing their emotions and behaviour by reflecting on their attachment needs in order to promote secure attachment
  • Pick up on your child/youth’s cues and signals
  • Better understand why your child/youth behaves the way they do
  • Encourage the development of confidence and self-esteem in your young person
  • Learn how their behaviour is a form of communicating their needs to you

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When: Thursdays • 11:00am to 1:00pm | April 04th to May 16th, 2024

Where: Foundry Prince George • 1148 7th Avenue

Register: Contact 236-423-1571 or kristie.north@bc.ymca.ca

Trans Social Group

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For those 12+ years old who identify as trans, looking for a supportive space to connect with others. Join Foundry Prince George and Accessible Counselling Services for safe, supported, drop-in social connections. 

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When: Drop-In Social Saturdays • April 13th & 20th • 1:00p.m.-3:00p.m. 

Where: Foundry Prince George • 1148 7th Avenue

Drop-InSnacks and activities provided

For more information, please contact accessiblecounsellingservices@gmail.com

 

The Art of Coping

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 Drop-in on this art-based group for young people dealing with addictions or compulsive behaviours. No artistic skill is needed! Anyone with a desire to explore recovery and express themselves through creativity and art is welcome.

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When:  2nd & 4th Wednesdays of each month • 2:30p.m.-3:30p.m.

Where: Foundry Prince George • 1148 7th Avenue • Drop-In

For more information, please contact: foundry@bc.ymca.ca | 236-423-1571

 

Heart Beat

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Peer support offering empathy, encouragement, and direction following the suicide of a loved one.
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When: The third Monday of each month

Contact Sandy at galletti@telus.net for more information.

DBT Group

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For youth 16–24 years who are struggling to manage strong emotions, impulsivity, or unstable relationships, and looking to grow distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and more.
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When: Next cycle beginning January 08th 2024

Mondays • 4:00p.m.–5:30p.m. Registered group.

Contact foundry@bc.ymca.ca to complete an intake prior to your first meeting.

SMART Recovery

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In this drop-in group, you will focus on building skills and gaining tools for maintaining motivation, managing urges, coping with thoughts and feelings, and living a balanced lifestyle. 

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Not currently being offered. Check out our 8 Step Recovery Group & the Art of Coping (beginning January 2024) as effective alternatives.

 

Looking for a SMART Recovery group in Prince George? Head to the link here:

https://meetings.smartrecovery.org/meetings/?coordinates=50&location=Prince+George%2C+BC%2C+Canada

 

8 Step Meditation Recovery Group

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Join us as we explore recovery through the lens of meditation and the Buddhist teachings, utilizing the book 8 Step Recovery. This group is for anyone with addictions or maladaptive coping strategies related to drugs, alcohol, food, sex or binge behaviour. It is an option for anyone who does not see themselves as having additions but have habits that are harmful in their lives.

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When: 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month • 4:00p.m.-5:00p.m. 

Drop-in • For more information, please contact us at (236) 423-1571 or foundry@bc.ymca.ca

SMART Recovery Friends and Family

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Caring for someone with an addiction can be hard. Find support and practical tools for yourself at SMART Family and Friends.

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When: 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month • 5:00p.m.–6:30p.m

Where: Prince George Public Library

Contact kristie.north@bc.ymca.ca for more information.

Drop-ins welcome.

Help for the Hard Times

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Workshops for those supporting a child or youth who has been a patient in a psychiatric unit or had an ER visit due to their mental health.

Help for the Hard Times workshops are hosted online and facilitated by parents with lived experience.

Topics

  • Session 1: How to support a safety plan at home (Part 1)
  • Session 2: How to support a safety plan at home (Part 2)
  • Session 3: How to take care of yourself and family after a crisis
  • Session 4: How to find the resources you need

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Contact kathy.buhler@familysmart.ca for more information.

Click here to register.

Emotion Focused Family Therapy Caregiver Workshop

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 Supporting a loved one that is struggling can be very challenging. Foundry believes that Emotion Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) supports caregivers with skills and tools that promote better wellness outcomes for all. Join us for two full-day sessions to learn the skills to become your loved one’s recovery coach. 

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When: February 26 & 27th, 2024 • 9:00a.m.–3:00p.m

Register and info: Email kristie.north@bc.ymca.ca or call Foundry at (236) 423-1571 

Peer Support Groups & Events

March 20: Paint A Prompt

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Featuring “Rob Boss”! Join Foundry Prince George in Paint A Prompt, a free event for youth 12-24. Bring your artistic spirits and paint a prompt with our Peer Supporters.
When: Wednesday, March 20th 2024 • 1:00pm to 3:00pm
Supplies and snacks provided

Foundry Otters Swim Club

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Want to join a free and supportive group to learn swimming skills, have fun, and challenge yourself? Ever wanted to learn to improve your swim skills under the guidance of a skilled coach?

Come join Peer Supporter Jas in the Foundry Otters Swim Club. Caregivers and support workers welcome as well.

When: Every 2nd & 4th Monday of the month

Contact jaspreet.singh@bc.ymca.ca for registration and more information or use the QR code below.

Follow us at #foundryottersswimclub and at Foundry Prince George’s regular Facebook and Instagram pages.

 

 

Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Events

 

Ice fishing at Eena Lake

Lunch, fishing gear, and transportation from Foundry PG provided. Registration for this activity is required prior to the event. Expect a short walk on the ice to the fishing spot, so weather appropriate winter clothing and footwear are required. For assistance getting winter clothing or footwear, contact Foundry PG Peer Support at 236-423-1571.

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When: Tuesday March 26th, 2024 • 10:00a.m.–4:00p.m

Register and further info: Call Foundry at (236) 423-1571

Coming Soon

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Stay tuned!

"Honestly, I see life differently – I’m more mindful, thoughtful, and better able to prioritize the things that I need, and the things that bring me joy."

- Foundry Prince George Youth

"In some moments, I still feel incapable, or helpless, or overwhelmed. But now I can remind myself, 'wait a minute! I have a lot of power, energy, and beautiful gifts inside me that I can use to make my life meaningful', even in those moments."

- Foundry Prince George Youth

"It's nice to know I'm not alone, it makes things a little bit easier."

- Foundry Prince George group participant

"It helped me through some dark times"

- Foundry Prince George Youth
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NEW – Foundry Work and Education Program

Foundry Work and Education is a new supported employment and education program for youth who are interested in working, going to school, or completing a training program. Foundry Work and Education helps youth to build the skills and experiences they need to achieve their goals. This program is available to BC youth between the ages of 15-24 years old, who are not currently employed or enrolled in any other employment program. Click here to learn more.

If you are a young person interested in participating or an employer/business who is interested in getting involved, please contact Melissa D’Agostino or Brigitte Clair.

Parent Peer Support

We are proud to offer Parent Peer Support services in partnership with FamilySmart. Our Parent Peer Support Workers are passionate about supporting caregivers‭; ‬both in processing their personal state of being‭, ‬and in strengthening bonds with their youth‭.‬ Contact Foundry or email us for more.

kristie.north@bc.ymca.ca‭
tammy.tetreau@familysmart.ca

Check out more info about FamilySmart services at www.familysmart.ca

Collaborative Partnerships

Hosted by YMCA BC, Foundry Prince George unites partner organizations that will address the health and wellness needs of young people aged 12 to 24 and their families.

  • Northern Health
  • Intersect Youth & Family Services Society
  • Ministry of Children and Family Development
  • Prince George Native Friendship Centre
  • Prince George Division of Family Practice
  • Services to Adults with Developmental Disabilities
  • The Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction
  • School District 57
  • Foundry Youth Action Committee
  • First Nations Health Authority
  • Justice Education Society/ Communities Against the Sexual Exploitation of Youth
  • Youth Forensic Psychiatric Services
  • Options for Sexual Health
  • Foundry Family Advisory
  • Qmunity
  • Family Smart
  • Central Interior Native Health

Make a difference for youth in Prince George by donating to the centre today.

Donate Now

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