top of page

Youth Supports During Exam Season



As winter sets in and exam season intensifies, The Grove Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario Wellington Guelph is reminding young people across Guelph and Wellington County that they are not alone. The winter months can be especially challenging for youth, with shorter days, colder weather, and increased academic pressure. The Grove is here to help, offering a safe, inclusive space where young people ages 12–26 can access free supports to help them manage stress, stay connected, and prioritize their well-being.


“At this time of year, many young people feel the combined weight of academic expectations and the emotional impact of winter,” says Jeff Hoffman Executive Director of The Grove Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario. “Our hubs are designed to make it easy for youth to walk in, find support, and know they have a community behind them.”

 

Free Services Available at The Grove Include: 


  • Mental Health Support: Walk-in counselling, peer support, and access to trained professionals who can help youth manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. 


  • Academic and Exam Support: Free tutoring, study spaces, and homework help to support youth during exams and throughout the school year.


  • Basic Needs & Wellness Resources: Free snacks, hot drinks, and a warm, welcoming place to spend time, especially helpful during the colder months.

     

  • Recreation & Social Connection: A safe place to connect with friends, participate in programs, and build a sense of community.


The Grove operates multiple hub locations across Guelph and Wellington County, each designed with youth input to ensure the spaces feel welcoming, inclusive, and supportive. All services are free, barrier-free, and no appointment is required.


“As we continue through the winter months, it’s important that young people know they don’t have to face stress alone,” added Hoffman. “Whether it’s for help preparing for exams, talking to someone about how they’re feeling, or simply grabbing a snack and warming up, The Grove is here for them.”


ABOUT YOUTH WELLNESS HUBS ONTARIO WELLINGTON GUELPH  

The Grove Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario Wellington Guelph is a collaborative project, with the aim of providing youth ages 12-25 with the support they need to build positive, bright futures. The goal of The Grove YWHO Wellington Guelph is to build a more effective health and social service system, through integration and collaboration, to better meet the needs of youth in Wellington County & Guelph. Now an official Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario site, The Grove YWHO Wellington Guelph currently includes seven sites across Guelph and Wellington County utilizing the benefit of “one door”, with networking sites. At each site, youth will be given access to programs and services that provide guidance and support for the future. From education and career support to counselling and peer-to-peer programs, YWHO Wellington Guelph facilities will provide help and encouragement to every youth in the community. 



Facebook: @thegrovehubs 


Instagram: @thegrovehubs 


     

For further information or to arrange an interview, contact:      

Megan Brady, Manager of Communications and Community Engagement   

The Grove YWHO Wellington Guelph/Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington      

1-844-264-2993 Ext. 2106  | (905) 380-2397 (cell)  

mbrady@cmhaww.ca      

 

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page