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The Story of Francis House

Touchstone opened Francis House in 1984. The first location was far
th
west, near the UBC gates, in a quaint little house on West 10 Avenue.
After many years at this site, another location became available and we
moved the program to West 2 and Alma. This was a huge, old
nd
character home, two blocks from the beach! It had a large backyard with
a basketball court and friendly ghosts that kept the night staff on alert!

Move east, young people!!
Another opportunity came up, several years later, that allowed us to move
st
into a brand new house - the current location just off Fraser and 41 . Not
only did we get a beautiful new home for our program, but it became
much more convenient for the youth that we served as Youth Hubs were
developed very close to the home. We are now well-established in our local
community and have forged strong relationships with our helping

partners.
Changing Needs…
In the past many of the youth had demonstrated significant difficulties
with substance misuse and some had been in frequent conflict with the law.
However the trend over the past couple of years has been more youth
referred with mental health issues. Many of the youth have been
diagnosed with some sort of behavioural or personality disorder or have
suffered from the tragic effects of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, an

attachment disorder, or learning disability.
Stepping Stones...
Francis House has been a place for youth in need to thrive and a foothold
for many Touchstone counsellors who began working at the house and
moved on to other programs advancing their careers and strengthening

families in the community of Richmond.