On Face to Face, Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre had the pleasure of sitting down with Claire MacLean, Chief Executive Officer of SHARE Family and Community Services, to discuss the upcoming launch of the Foundry Centre, a youth-focused wellness hub opening in the Tri-Cities this fall.

 Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre – Local Journalism Initiative

The Foundry Centre will serve youth aged 12 to 24 by offering integrated, low-barrier access to physical health care, mental health services, substance use support, peer guidance, and social services, all under one roof. It will be located at PoCo Place Mall, right on the Coquitlam–Port Coquitlam border.

“Young people shouldn’t have to bounce from office to office to get help,” said Claire. “The Foundry Centre is about creating a space where youth feel safe, respected, and truly seen. One visit can change the course of someone’s life.”

Designed in partnership with local youth through a dedicated advisory committee, the centre reflects the priorities of today’s generation including support for LGBTQ+ youth, newcomers, and those struggling with isolation. “One in four young people say they feel lonely,” Claire noted. “That’s not just sad. It’s dangerous. We’re building a response that’s rooted in belonging.”

The Foundry Centre is the latest chapter in SHARE’s decades-long mission to support Tri-Cities residents through moments of vulnerability. With over 30,000 individuals accessing SHARE’s services each year, from the food bank and rent bank to disability supports, seniors programs, and newcomer integration, Claire describes the organization’s role as community care in action.

SHARE’s work is powered in part by community donations and events like the annual Imagine Gala, happening again on March 7, 2026. Volunteers are also vital, especially for programs like English language groups and seniors outreach.