When you walk through the doors of the Broadway Youth Resource Centre (BYRC), you’re stepping into more than just a drop-in space. You’re entering a supportive community designed to meet youth where they’re at, offering practical help and long-term support to young people ages 13 to 24.
What is BYRC?
Located in Vancouver, BYRC is a one-stop hub that provides a wide range of services to youth facing diverse and often complex challenges. Whether someone needs a hot meal, a change of clothes, mental health support, or help finding housing or employment — BYRC is here. The centre also hosts several community partners under one roof, including LOVE BC and Vancouver Community College, making it easier for youth to access a full spectrum of services in one place.
How We Support Youth
Our philosophy is simple: low-barrier, trauma-informed care that starts with trust. There’s no need for an appointment or referral — youth can simply walk in during drop-in hours and talk to a youth worker. From there, we help them identify their needs and build a plan. Whether they’re in crisis or just looking for a safe place to hang out, we’re here to listen and support without judgment.
We focus on holistic support that includes:
- Relationship-building
- Harm reduction practices
- Culturally relevant and healing-centered services
- Practical and emotional resources tailored to each youth’s unique situation
What Services Are Offered?
BYRC offers a wide array of supports, including:
- Daily snacks and hot dinners
- Laundry and shower access
- Harm reduction supplies
- Case management and housing support
- Mental health and substance use services
- Access to alternative education through EVEC (East Vancouver Education Centre)
- Indigenous cultural supports
- Victim services for youth experiencing violence or trauma – Indigenous Youth Victim Services Program
- Youth to Adulthood Transitions support- connected through MCFD
Programs and Workshops That Empower
We believe in youth leadership and engagement. Our Youth Engagement Program gives young people the chance to prepare meals for peers, step into leadership roles, and build community connections. We also run practical life-skills workshops covering everything from financial literacy and job readiness to cooking and tenant rights.
Our cultural programming includes drum-making, beading workshops, and Elder-led sessions that offer opportunities for youth to connect with their roots and build healing relationships.
Working Together with Community Partners
Collaboration is key to what we do. Our on-site partnerships with groups like LOVE BC who offers specialized supports around healthy relationships, and violence prevention; as well as Vancouver Community College who offers educational pathways. We also maintain strong referral networks with housing agencies, legal supports, clinics, and more to ensure youth get the help they need — when they need it.
Making a Real Impact
The transformation we see is inspiring. Youth who arrive in crisis often begin to thrive through consistency and care. Some return to school after years away. Others land their first job through our Peer Navigator Program. One young person told us that BYRC was the only place they felt safe while navigating serious mental health struggles — and from that trust, they found the pathway to long-term support and healing.
Every story is different, but the outcome is often the same: a sense of belonging, stability, and hope.
How to Access BYRC
Accessing our programs couldn’t be easier. Just drop by during our open hours — no appointment, no referral, no pressure. We’re also connected with schools, shelters, and other organizations that refer youth to us regularly. Whether someone is coming in for the first time or the fiftieth, they’ll be welcomed with respect and compassion.
Supporting Youth, One Relationship at a Time At BYRC, we understand that challenges like substance use, housing instability, and mental health concerns are rooted in larger systemic issues. That’s why our team is trained to respond with empathy, flexibility, and a harm reduction lens. We’re not here to fix anyone — we’re here to walk alongside youth as they define their own goals and path forward.
Want to learn more or support our work?
Visit us at www.pcrs.ca or stop by to see how you can be part of the BYRC community.
