As of April 1, Boyle Street Community Services has officially taken over the day-to-day operations of the CHEW Project. CHEW (Community, Health, Empowerment & Wellness) supports 2SLGBTQ+ youth and young adults in Edmonton.
The CHEW Project was founded in 2014 and established under the Fyrefly Institute at the University of Alberta. It provides a safe and supportive environment for 2SLGBTQ+ youth and emerging adults under 30 facing barriers such as mental health challenges, poverty, houselessness, substance use, oppression, and more. CHEW’s inclusive OUTpost at 7103 105 Street offers a variety of services, including harm reduction, basic needs support such as food baskets, hygiene supplies, mental health counseling, community referrals, and a welcoming drop-in space.
CHEW’s holistic approach also incorporates Indigenous peer support, crisis intervention, and community outreach; it’s a critical resource for marginalized youth in Edmonton.
Challenges and Transition
In early 2024, CHEW faced several operational challenges, forcing CHEW to scale back its on-site services. The Fyrefly Institute reached out to Boyle Street, and we stepped in to assist.
Boyle Street, with its long history of serving Edmonton’s homeless and marginalized populations, offered the necessary support and staffing to keep CHEW operational. In January, discussions about an official partnership began, leading to Boyle Street taking over daily operations on April 1. Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS) also joined the partnership, providing specialized training for CHEW’s staff.
Boyle Street’s Role and Complementary Services
Boyle Street Community Services brings a wealth of experience and a holistic approach to supporting Edmonton’s vulnerable populations. Our programs and services include housing support, mental health services, substance use support, cultural support, mail and ID services, and our Streetworks program - all of which complement CHEW’s existing services.
By integrating CHEW, Boyle Street ensures that 2SLGBTQ+ youth have access to a broader network of resources and support. This partnership not only stabilizes CHEW’s operations but also enhances the quality and scope of services available to its clients. Boyle Street’s commitment to harm reduction, community engagement, and holistic care aligns perfectly with CHEW’s mission to provide inclusive and compassionate support.
Looking Ahead
Most importantly, this partnership between us, CHEW, and YESS better serves Edmonton’s 2SLGBTQ+ youth; CHEW has hired more staff to further extend its services and is aiming to open five days a week starting in September. This collaboration exemplifies the power of community organizations working together to address the complex needs of marginalized populations – something we also saw when responding to the Shigella crisis.
In a time when many social services are struggling, the collaboration between Boyle Street, CHEW, and YESS stands out. By pooling resources and expertise, we are not just talking about problems but actively working toward solutions, ensuring that Edmonton’s 2SLGBTQ+ youth receive the support and care they deserve.
