Our Program
Independent living in Winnipeg for young people 16 to 21
New Steps supports young people and families — with strong ties to First Nations and Métis communities — through culturally grounded programming, safe housing, and wraparound support.
Independent Living Program
A three-phase path from support to independence
Placement is by need, not age. Most young people move straight into their own fully furnished apartment, and a 16- or 17-year-old who is ready can too. Some start in a shared home with their own room. Everyone has 24/7 support and moves forward at their own pace, gaining more independence, responsibility, and life skills at each stage. Young people leave with help finding affordable housing and a real plan after 21.
In Action
More than a program — a community
Our 3-Phase Model
A clear path from support to independence
Every young person's journey is different, but the destination is the same — a stable, independent life they've built themselves.
Foundations
A shared start, when that fits
Shared homes where residents run their own day, with 24/7 support. Youth Life Skills Coaches visit and stay in touch, teaching life skills and connecting residents to wraparound support. Residents build a foundation of stability and trust.
- 24/7 support: residents can reach our team at any hour
- Youth Life Skills Coaches visit and stay in touch
- Weekly grocery support
- Support and resources for meeting program goals
- Cultural connection, with Elder and cultural programming being built with community partners
Transitional Living
Where most young people start
Their own fully furnished apartment, with 24/7 support and regular coaching. Placement is by need, not age, so a 16- or 17-year-old who is ready can start here. Residents practise budgeting, cooking and work while keeping a safety net.
- Their own fully furnished apartment
- Building staff on site about 16 hours a day to look after the building (they are not caregivers)
- A weekly living allowance when they meet program expectations
- Weekly grocery support
- Employment & education support
Independent Living
Graduation ~Age 21
Young adults leave with help finding affordable housing and a real plan after 21. Alumni support stays available so independence is not a cliff.
- Independent apartment in the community
- Help finding affordable housing and a real plan after 21
- Staying connected after the program
- Ongoing community connection
- Emergency support access
After high school
A young person who graduates high school receives $500.
If they graduate high school, New Steps also matches up to $4,000 toward a vehicle.
Mother Program
For young moms and moms-to-be
The Mother Program is for young women who are expecting or already have young children. Each mom lives in her own fully furnished apartment, and she stays the parent. Our team supports her with:
- Getting to prenatal and doctor's appointments
- Budgeting and setting up for a baby
- Connecting with community supports
Like every resident, she has 24/7 support and can reach our team at any hour. Workers can ask about the Mother Program when they make a referral.
Skills & Employment
Getting ready for work
Today, Youth Life Skills Coaches and our own modules help young people get ready for work and school. Partnerships with employers and trades are in development.
Getting a first job
Help with resumes, interviews and finding a first job, through our First Job module and regular coaching.
A business idea
Our My Own Boss module covers the basics of starting something of your own. Mentorship with local businesses is in development.
Food service training
Food service training with community partners is in development. It is not running yet.
Skilled trades
Trades workshops and placements with partners are in development. If you can offer one, we would like to hear from you.
Financial Literacy & Life Skills
Budgeting workshops, banking basics, tax filing support, and practical life skills that prepare youth for long-term financial independence.
Interested in partnering with New Steps to offer skills training or employment opportunities? Get in touch →