After years of planning, collaboration, and community consultation, Foundry Surrey is preparing to open its doors this fall as part of the province-wide Foundry BC network, offering free, integrated health services for young people aged 12 to 24, along with support for families and caregivers. Following ongoing consultation with local youth and community members—and to help clearly anchor the location of the first Foundry in Surrey—the centre will be known going forward as Foundry Surrey-Central. This name reflects both its central location at 10280 City Parkway and its inclusive vision.
But as the opening date approaches, community donations are urgently needed to bring the centre across the finish line.
For youth leader Evy, who has been involved from the beginning, the connection to Foundry Surrey came at a critical time.
“I found out about Foundry Surrey through my support worker at Pacific Community Resources Society (PCRS), which, honestly, the timing couldn’t have been better. I was probably in one of the darker times in my life, and when this opportunity came along, I felt like I could finally be involved in something that mattered to me.”
What stood out to Evy was the centre’s approach to community engagement and cultivating a culture of care.
“I remember joining the first youth leadership meetings and really enjoying the fact that it was so low barrier, so accessible, and trauma-informed. The team really emphasized making us feel welcomed and safe. I’ve never seen it done like that before.”
Foundry Surrey was designed to fill critical gaps in services for youth navigating adolescence and early adulthood. The ability to access multiple forms of support in one place is a game-changer for young people who often don’t know where to turn.
“Being able to walk in and get support right away, without even knowing what that support might look like, is so important. Often, young people don’t know the next step to take. It’s overwhelming. Foundry Surrey will provide options and guidance in one place.”
Youth leader Armaan shares a similar sentiment, emphasizing the importance of culturally relevant and inclusive support.
“Foundry Surrey is important to me because Surrey is an incredibly diverse community full of youth with lots of mental health needs. I believe that Foundry Surrey will offer a safe space for youth like me to access care, connect with other Surrey youth, and take steps toward being their best selves.”
Family services are equally central to Foundry Surrey. Family leader Selena emphasizes that the centre is a resource for caregivers, not just youth.
“You don’t have to have a young person in your life who is coming to Foundry Surrey to benefit from it. Teachers, siblings, parents, or anyone who wants to support youth can come, learn, and access help. Peer support workers, counsellors, and doctors will be available. Even if you just want to talk to another family member with lived experience or pick up some brochures from the resource library, that’s completely welcome.”
Foundry Surrey also bridges the gap between youth and adult services, as Evy explains.
“The age range of 12 to 24 is so important. There’s such a drastic change between youth and adult services, and when you’re 18 or 19, you’re often left to navigate everything on your own. Foundry Surrey provides that transition support.”
Both youth and family leaders see Foundry Surrey as a space that will create lasting community change. For Selena, the long-term possibilities are significant.
“I think we’ll see reduced suicide rates, fewer incidents of self-harm, and early support to prevent substance use challenges. It will also be a vital space for youth exploring gender identity, Indigenous youth, newcomers and anyone who needs a safe place to be heard and supported.”
For Evy, being part of Foundry Surrey has been a journey of personal growth and empowerment.
“The experience has been transformative. Being able to raise my hand, use my voice, and participate in presentations and meetings was terrifying at first, but it taught me so much about myself and how I could make a change for my community.”
Donations are Needed to Open Doors
While the Government of British Columbia provides foundational start-up and operational funding for Foundry centres, the creation of a truly youth-informed, welcoming space depends on local donations.
“Your donation opens doors – literally and figuratively – for youth and families in Surrey,” said Deb Anderson Eng, a long-time supporter. “Every contribution ensures these vital services are there when they’re needed most. It’s a chance to be part of something transformative.”
Community Impact
Foundry Surrey is a community initiative in the truest sense, developed with input from youth, families, and local service providers, guided by the principle that care should be accessible, inclusive, and responsive. It offers a unique opportunity to address gaps in mental health, wellness, and family support, while also creating long-term positive impacts for the broader community.
Deb emphasizes the critical need for donations,
“Every donation brings us closer to opening the doors. It’s more than a building—it’s hope, care, and opportunity for Surrey’s youth. Please join us in making that vision a reality.”
Donate Today
Foundry Surrey represents years of dedication, leadership, and community input. The centre is ready—but it needs your support to become a space that reflects the youth and families it’s meant to serve.
Every gift, no matter the size, helps provide immediate care and long-term connection for Surrey’s next generation.
To donate and be part of this transformative project, click here.
