This is an open custody/detention program and you are able to wear your own clothes. It is expected that your clothing will be casual and what young people like to wear. However, clothing items that promote drug/alcohol use or have offensive messages cannot be worn while in custody/detention. We will make sure that you have the clothing that you need, for all seasons of the year, by obtaining it from your family/guardian or by making other arrangements if need be.

You are entitled to decent clothing and can have up to four (4) different sets at one time. This should give you enough variety and opportunity to keep your clothes clean. You may not trade, loan, or sell anything that belongs to you. A list of your personal possessions is made and signed by you when you are admitted, updated when changes occur, and signed out by you and staff when you leave.

Money, prescription medication, jewelry, aerosol sprays, and toxic substances (such as white out, glues and bleach) are controlled by staff. These items will be stored and you will have access by staff as needed or permitted.

Items that are illegal, contain or promote offensive messages, or could cause harm to anyone will not be allowed to be accessed by you, while at Mee-Quam Youth Residence and will be returned to your home if possible. If it is not possible to return these items to your home, they will be stored for you. In the case of illegal items, they will be reported to the police and may be confiscated by them.

You have the opportunity to earn an allowance for personal spending while at Mee-Quam Youth Residence. You can earn up to a maximum of $8.00 each week, to be paid out on Fridays. Staff will have you sign for your allowance and will safeguard your money until you are permitted to spend it. Anytime you access your allowance, you will be required to initial your purchase.

You can spend some of your allowance when you have earned your Level 2. You can use your money to participate in Canteen on Wednesday and Saturday Nights, or to purchase hygiene products if you do not like the products provided for you. If approved, you may also use your allowance on outings. Staff will bring your money and hold it on community outings where you might want to use it. Receipts of all purchases must be handed in to staff. Access to personal money will be limited while at Mee-Quam Youth Residence. If you have more than $100.00 in cash or pay cheques, you will have the option of opening a bank account or it will be returned home.

You cannot smoke while in custody/detention. If you have smoked a considerable amount of time and are experiencing difficulty, the Mee-Quam Youth Residence staff will provide support to minimize your difficulty. Feel free to tell us what will help you.