May 29th, 2026
Dresden, Ontario — Dresden Sidestreets Youth Centre has reached an agreement to purchase the former TD Bank building in Dresden, Ontario, with plans to transform the space into the new Sidestreets Community Hub.
The new hub will serve as a welcoming space for youth, families, and the broader community. Youth drop-in programming will be the first initiative launched, with plans to expand over time to include community events, family activities, workshops, meetings, senior activities and partnerships with local organizations.
“This is an exciting and meaningful step forward for our organization and for the community,” said Lori Ouellette, Board Chair of Dresden Sidestreets Youth Centre. “This space gives us the opportunity to expand youth programming while also creating a place where the entire community can come together. We see this as an investment not just in youth, but in the future of Dresden.”
“The Youth Centre has long been recognized as a valued nonprofit organization that provides meaningful programs, mentorship, and community-building opportunities for local youth. Their presence and ongoing initiatives contribute significantly to the social and cultural vitality of Dresden and the broader community. Securing this location will not only strengthen the Dresden Sidestreets Youth Centre’s ability to continue offering these important services but would also enhance the vibrancy of the downtown core. Their investment in this property would support local revitalization efforts, increase community engagement, and contribute positively to the long-term growth and well-being of the area.” said Mayor Darrin Canniff in a recent letter of support.
Dresden Sidestreets Youth Centre has been serving local youth since 2000 and has built a strong reputation for providing safe, supportive programming. The new facility will allow for increased capacity, improved accessibility, and new opportunities for collaboration and community engagement.
The transformation of the former bank building into a community hub also represents a positive step for Dresden’s downtown core, bringing renewed activity and purpose to a well-known local landmark.
Dresden Sidestreets Youth Centre would like to thank TD Bank for accepting their offer and working with the organization to help make this opportunity possible, Lawyer Stuart K Kiar and Realtor Karen Melton for their support and guidance throughout the process as well as Mayor Canniff and Councillors McGrail, Jubenville, and McDonald for their support of this project.
The purchase and renovations of the new building will be funded by the sale of their current building. Work to prepare the building will begin in the coming months, with youth drop-in programming expected to launch as soon as the space is ready. Additional programming and community uses will continue to develop as the hub grows.
About Dresden Sidestreets Youth Centre
Dresden Sidestreets Youth Centre is a registered charitable organization serving youth in Dresden, Ontario since 2000. The organization provides safe, supportive programming focused on mentorship, life skills, and positive community engagement.
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Media Contact:
Lori Ouellette
lori@sidestreets.ca
