New Youth Centre opens in Komoka

Middlesex Centre, September 13, 2024 – The fun officially started at the new Komoka Youth Centre with a ribbon-cutting and grand opening event on September 13, 2024.

Mayor Aina DeViet, Councillor Sue Cates, and staff representatives from the Municipality of Middlesex Centre and the Middlesex Centre YMCA were joined by local youth and their families at the event. The two organizations are partnering on the new centre that will bring youth-focused programming to Komoka.

“We are excited to offer this new dedicated space for local youth to learn and grow,” said Mayor DeViet. “Establishing a youth centre in Komoka was identified as a priority in the Middlesex Centre Community Services Master Plan, and we are pleased to be delivering on that recommendation for young people and their families. We know our partners, the Middlesex Centre YMCA, will bring their considerable experience in leading social and recreational programs to the new youth centre.”

Located in the Komoka Community Centre at 133 Queen St, the new centre will offer both drop-in and specialized programs designed for youth aged 9 to 17. The youth centre will act as a hang-out space for youth to play games and socialize, meet friends, and learn new skills. 

“We are thrilled to be part of the Komoka Youth Centre launch. Through this partnership, local youth will have access to a safe, engaging environment where they can connect with peers, have fun, and grow in new ways. Whether it’s through gaming, air hockey, or specialized programs like sports drop-ins, art classes, and leadership training, we’re creating opportunities for youth to learn new skills and make a difference in their community,” said Soyuth Sok, VP Health, Fitness & Aquatics for the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario. “This reflects the YMCA's mission to foster youth development, strengthen communities, and offer spaces where everyone can belong and thrive.”

Funding for the Komoka Youth Centre was provided through a grant from the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative. Funded by the Government of Canada, the Healthy Communities Initiative invested in "small-scale infrastructure projects to create safer, more vibrant and inclusive communities." 

Drop-in programs at the Komoka Youth Centre start on September 16, 2024, and will be offered on Monday, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Drop-in programs are free of charge. Youth under 10 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

For more information, visit middlesexcentre.ca/kyc or call the Komoka Wellness Centre at 519-601-8022 ext. 5110.