Raft The, St. Catharines, ON

Since its inception, the RAFT has supported thousands of youth, helping them to become independent and self-sufficient individuals. In 1992, in response to growing concerns associated with a lack of services for at-risk and homeless youth, an interfaith task force examined how the community could best meet their needs. Following consultations with education, social services, justice, the faith community and local agencies, the RAFT, operated by the Niagara Resource Service for Youth, became a reality. With funding from service clubs, community groups, the faith community and concerned individuals, the RAFT took shape and officially opened in May of 1994. The RAFT began as a drop in centre operating five nights a week.