Operation Go Home
|
The late Reverend Norman Johnston started Operation Go Home in 1971 in Ottawa. On his own initiative, Reverend Johnston began working with the area police forces, courts, and the "street people" to reunite hundreds of youth with their families. He contacted young runaways on the streets and helped them to return home. A volunteer Board of Directors adopted Reverend Johnston's tireless efforts in l985 and Reverend Sterling Irvine became the director of the program. Office space was obtained and volunteer workers joined the staff. Reverend Irvine continued to meet with street youth and acted as a liaison with parents to try and effect reconciliations. In 1990, the Ottawa Chapter of Operation Go Home elected a committee to investigate forming a National Organization. National Operation Go Home was launched in September, 1990. Gradually more offices have been opened across the country; these are in the cities of Toronto in 1992, and in Winnipeg in l994. An office is in the process of being opened in Vancouver and should be operational before year-end 2000. |