An innovative program to support youth facing homelessness is now underway in Northumberland, thanks to a $100,000 seed grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).
During a Nightstop Information Night on Tuesday, local MPP David Piccini formally recognised Rebound Child and Youth Services Northumberland for its leadership in launching the Nightstop pilot. The program matches screened volunteer hosts with young people in crisis who need a safe place to sleep.
Piccini congratulated Rebound for their continued great work on behalf of youth in Northumberland.
“We need to always ensure that children and youth in our community are given all the support they need,” said Piccini. “Rebound are offering an innovative, community-driven program that helps those who need it most-and one our government is proud to support.”
According to Piccini this builds on the success of 360 kids and two other Nightstop programs already running in the province.
Rebound Executive Director Sam Rockbrune said the new program helps address a growing need. “In 2024, Rebound supported eight unsheltered youth under the age of 18. In 2025, we’ve already supported seven,” Rockbrune said. “With the launch of Nightstop, we are now able to provide a vital resource for addressing the critical gap for youth in our community..”
Nightstop has operated successfully in the U.K. for over 30 years. Northumberland joins York Region and Durham as the only Canadian regions offering the model.
Cobourg Mayor Lucas Cleveland says this community is truly a generous one.
The Trillium grant supports staffing, two laptops, and training materials needed to run the program. Nightstop provides short-term shelter, builds trust, and helps youth access further resources.
Founded in 1997, Rebound is a non-profit organisation offering youth-focused services across Northumberland.
More information is available at rcys.ca.
(Written by: Joseph Goden with files from Peter Dounoukos)
