History:
360ºkids began over 33 years ago as two separate agencies that were developed to address the needs of the communities of York Region. The Markham Neighbourhood Support Centre was created to respond to the needs of young families with children who sought support and ways to learn about childrearing. Youth Housing Markham provided safe and supportive housing for youth who could no longer live at home. A volunteer committee worked to create two residential homes that would support 13 homeless youth. These two agencies eventually amalgamated in 1998 to form Pathways for Children, Youth and Families of York Region Inc. The organization continued to offer programs and supports to both families and their children and to homeless and at-risk youth in York Region for 15 more years.
In 2013 the organization was selected to deliver programs and support services to at-risk youth in the new Richmond Hill Hub being built by the Regional Municipality of York in Richmond Hill, Ontario. This new role, along with a variety of other new program initiatives, motivated the organization to change its name to 360°kids. The name 360ºkids refers to the comprehensive approach that the organization takes to assisting at-risk youth and surrounding them with care, recognizing that these kids need a wide range of supports to help them rebuild their lives.
This holistic approach is enshrined in our slogan: Surrounding kids in crisis with care.
360ºkids now serves over 3,500 youth, each year from every municipality in York and this number has grown significantly since our move to the Richmond Hill Hub operating the youth hub and offering even more essential services to youth. Our staff represent many cultures and experiences and have earned a reputation as leaders in offering high quality, innovative programming to the people we serve.
Mission:
To prevent homelessness by helping youth at risk or in crisis transition to a state of safety and stability.
Vision:
Every kid has a safe home.