Foundry Comox Valley is a free health and wellness centre for youth aged 12 to 24 and their families, located at 575 10th Street in Courtenay. Run by The John Howard Society of North Island, it’s part of a provincial network of Foundry centres offering integrated services all under one roof. You can walk in without an appointment for most services—counselling, peer support, physical health care, sexual health clinics (Tuesdays and Thursdays), substance use support, and more. Everything is confidential.

The centre takes a youth-centred approach with services designed around what young people actually need: drop-in family doctors and nurses, psychiatry by referral, housing and employment support, and cultural supports including an Indigenous Youth Navigator. There’s also peer support programs for both youth and families, plus wellness groups. The space itself is designed to be accessible and low-stress—wheelchair accessible, gender-neutral washrooms, sensory-friendly items like fidgets and colouring supplies, and a low-stimulation waiting area.

If you’re between 12 and 24 (or you’re a parent or caregiver of someone in that age range) and need health or social support, this is worth knowing about. The drop-in model means you don’t need to navigate referrals or wait lists for initial support, which removes a lot of barriers. Contact them at 250-871-1722 or check their website for current hours and services.